Music

This beautiful version of the classic hymn, ‘Rock of Ages’ is sung by Christian-music singer Amy Grant and husband, country-music singer Vince Gill. The music will take you back to a different time.

‘Rock of Ages’ was written by Augustus Toplady in the 1760s. He wrote other hymns but ‘Rock of Ages’ is the most well-known

The hymn is about God being immovable and constant, like a rock, in our lives. These lyrics remind us of who God really is. 

“Rock Of ages cleft for me
Let me hide myself in thee
Rock of Ages, cleft for me
Let me hide myself in thee”

Many remember this song from childhood or an older relative who enjoyed it. The song is one of the more popular hymns enjoyed by many generations over the years. 

There are quite a few comments on YouTube mentioning how this song reminds them of singing with loved ones in the past. This comment, “Grandma I sure wish you was here we could sing together like we did when I was a little girl” is lovely and so many can relate to singing this hymn and others as children with their grandparents or older relatives. 

This version of the song is from Amy Grant’s album, ‘Rock of Ages…Hymns and Faith’ which came out in 2005. With 13 tracks, ‘Rock of Ages’ joins other classic hymns on the album such as ‘I Surrender All’ and ‘Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.’ 

This video is only the audio track of the song with an image of Amy Grant but it is perfect to listen to when you need a reminder that God is always there. 

Psalm 18:2 “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

One member of an immensely talented group of musicians, Celtic Thunder, turned in an awe-inspiring and moving rendition of a beloved folk song from the 1970s, “Cats in the Cradle.”

Being a parent is one of life’s greatest blessings. Children are a true gift from the good Lord. Those little bundles of joy add much happiness and love to one’s life. But, as every parent understands, children do not stay little for long. They have a terrible habit of growing up, moving out and creating a life for themselves, separate from mom and dad. 

A parent’s time with their child or children must be treasured and cherished. Children are only small and dependent on their mother and father for a limited period. In the blink of an eye, a child is graduating from high school, packing up their belongings and backing out of the driveway for the last time. 

“Cats in the Cradle” is a tune about how time does not stop for any reason or person. The song’s heartbreaking lyrics detail how a father welcomed a son into the world. But, because of the busy nature of life, the father continually put spending time with his child on the back burner. 

The child continually tried to catch up and spend time with his father. However, something always came up that distracted the father from his son. In an instant, the child has graduated from college, moved out and has a family of his own.

Now, sadly, the tables have been turned on the father. He has retired and wants nothing more than to spend time with his offspring. But the son is too busy for his dad. The young man is imitating what he witnessed his father doing as a child. 

Despite the sad and heartbreaking nature of the lyrics, the vocal performance is outstanding. The packed auditorium seems to agree. They gave the performers a rousing and thunderous round of applause. 

“Cats in the Cradle” is a tune that reminds us of the fleeting nature of time and how we all have a limited supply of that precious commodity. The next question is: what will we do with the time we've been given?

Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go, and even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Former America’s Got Talent winner Kodi Lee is back and has released the official lyric video for his catchy, upbeat and original tune “Change.”

Shows like America’s Got Talent, American Idol and The Voice let people share their God-given talents with the world. Those programs have helped to uncover and move forward the careers of people like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Iam Tongi and Jordan Smith. 

The amount of talent that regularly appears on those shows every single season is stunning. Not only talent, but those shows feature some of the most inspiring, determined and focused individuals. Kodi Lee, who has autism and is blind, fits in both categories. The young man is immensely talented and refuses to let his disabilities keep him from achieving his musical dreams. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Kodi released the official lyric video for his original tune “Change.” It’s an upbeat, fast-tempo and catchy song, sure to get stuck in your head. 

“You gotta change
Where’s your sense of dignity
No hate, we gotta act differently
Why wait, be the positivity”

Kodi recently appeared on the program that brought him fame and attention – America’s Got Talent, where he played his original track. As usual with a Kodi Lee performance, he brought down the house. The audience, including all four judges, gave the young man’s performance a standing ovation.

Following his performance on the AGT stage, Simon Cowell praised the young man and his musical talents. He stated that the original song, “Change,” showed that Kodi is a great artist and person.

Others who commented on the video’s YouTube link agreed with Simon’s assessment.

“I think this is my all time favorite song you have ever done. It’s fire. Thank you for this Kodi. People will be covering YOUR song now!” one person wrote.

“Just saw this…Wow. We need this playing on repeat. God bless you. Thank you for sharing,” someone else added.  

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Allie Sherlock turned in an outstanding and stirring performance of a classic hit from one of the most iconic and influential musical groups of all time, The Beatles.

Not many bands in music history are remotely comparable to The Beatles in terms of impact and the sheer volume of work. The four lads from Liverpool were not even together for an entire decade. Despite their relatively short run together, their music remains in heavy rotation and still resonates with generations decades after disbanding. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Allie performs “In My Life” by The Beatles. Once again, Allie knocks the performance out of the park. No one will ever top a song originally performed and written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. However, her rendition of the beloved song is sure to get the seal of approval from even the most diehard Beatles fans. 

Allie uses her distinct and soulful voice to belt out those memorable lyrics first sung by The Beatles. She shows that she is an extremely talented and gifted performer with a bright future. 

“There are places I remember
All my life, though some have changed
Some forever, not for better
Some have gone and some have remain”

The beautifully and immaculately decorated venue in which Allie plays is a dramatic departure from her usual location. Normally, she plays on a busy street to a large crowd gathering to take in her terrific and soulful renditions. As the video’s description states, her performance happened in Manchester Arena and was part of the Queen Jubilee celebration. 

In the video’s title, Allie called the cover of The Beatles hit the “biggest performance of my career.”

At the end of her cover, the crowd in the arena erupts, rightly, with a thunderous round of applause. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Country music legend Alan Jackson turned in a moving live performance of a classic and beloved hymn, “Standing on the Promises.”

The world is a lost and broken place occupied by hurting people struggling to survive. Everyday living and its many worries and stressors can weigh people down and overwhelm them, making it seem that going on is impossible. 

But there is One who never leaves or forsakes us. He sticks closer than a brother in times of pain and sorrow. He will always remain faithful and loving, shedding His abundant and sufficient grace upon thee. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Alan treats a packed auditorium to his dazzling and lovely rendition of the classic hymn “Standing on the Promises.” 

“Standing on the promises of Christ my King
Through eternal ages, let his praises ring
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing
Standing on the promises of God”

Throughout his performance, the camera catches several people singing along with Alan, voicing the tune’s beautifully written lyrics about waiting on and relying upon God’s promises. 

The entire audience erupts in applause as they demonstrate how much they loved and appreciated Alan’s cover of that beloved hymn.

As most people know, everyday living, with all its demands and stresses, can become unbearable. Getting through a day can feel like an accomplishment and something worth celebrating. 

But in those times, when everything seems to be going against us, and nothing appears to be going right, we can stand firm on God’s promises. That’s because we already know how the story ends. Jesus Christ went to Calvary, dying and suffering on our behalf. He has already won the victory, defeating sin, shame and death. 

Praise God. As the song so beautifully states, let His eternal praises ring!

Isaiah 41:10 “Have no fear, for I am with you; do not be looking about in trouble, for I am your God; I will give you strength, yes, I will be your helper; yes, my true right hand will be your support.”

Two talented musicians, Niall Horan and The Voice winner Huntley, joined forces for a stunning duet, performing Bob Dylan’s classic “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door.”

Not many singer-songwriters have had even a tenth of the impact of Bob Dylan. Throughout his career, which has spanned decades, he has produced dozens of classic and memorable hit tunes. Additionally, he is consistently considered one of the greatest songwriters of all time. His songs, even though they may be decades old, are still constantly covered by other artists.

In a clip posted on YouTube, Niall and Huntley cover one of Bob’s many classic songs, “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door.” Both sit on stools in the center of the stage as they strum on guitars and belt out the classic lyrics, first written and performed by Bob Dylan. 

“Mama take this badge from me
I can’t use it anymore
It’s getting dark, too dark to see
Feels like I’m knocking on Heaven’s door”

To put it simply, Niall and Huntley’s cover is outstanding. Their voices work well together, perfectly complementing one another. Huntley’s scratchy and raspy tone makes for an excellent pairing with Niall’s more clean-cut sound. 

Niall and Huntley’s rendition is worth multiple listens. It’s such a calming and soothing cover. The studio audience seemed to agree as well. At the end of their duet, the studio audience erupted in a thunderous round of applause.

Others agreed as well. Several people who commented on the video’s YouTube expressed their astonishment at the awe-inspiring cover of the Bob Dylan classic.

“This was the best rendition of Knockin on Heaven’s Door I’ve ever listened to. With Niall’s story teller (sic) voice and Huntley’s husky tone and those high notes and harmonies, it’s just incredible. Great job gentlemen! I’d listen to a full album of your collaboration any day,” one person wrote.

“Cried the first time I heard them and now I listen to it daily. Sooooo good!!!” another individual added.

Psalm 95:1 “O come, let us make songs to the Lord; sending up glad voices to the Rock of our salvation.”

One member of the unbelievably musically gifted vocalist group Celtic Thunder delivered a moving, awe-inspiring and nostalgic-inducing performance of “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

A handful of songs immediately transport us to a specific time or bring up particular images in our minds. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” likely has listeners seeing photos of Dorothy’s ruby red slippers, the Tinman and “her little dog, too.” The opening notes of “Do-Re-Mi” will cause listeners to replay the scene of Julie Andrews singing and strumming a guitar on a mountainside.

Another tune that fits into the exclusive group of nostalgic tracks is “When You Wish Upon a Star” from the 1940 Walt Disney animated classic “Pinocchio.” Like those other songs, “When You Wish Upon a Star” is recognized and beloved by the masses. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, one member of Celtic Thunder beautifully performs that timeless tune, singing out those lovely lyrics. 

“When you wish upon a star
Makes no difference who you are
Anything your heart desires 
Will come to you”

You can’t listen to that song and not immediately get a warm and fuzzy feeling as you’re transported back to when you were a child. If there was ever a song meant to induce nostalgia and a longing for the past when times were simpler, this is the tune intended to do it. 

Not only is the talented young singer’s vocal delivery outstanding, hitting every note with expert timing and precision, but the stage is a sight to behold. The meticulously and wondrously decorated trees behind him literally help set the stage for the feeling conveyed by the song’s lyrics. 

Celtic Thunder is a group composed of immensely talented musicians. They continually churn out dazzling performances, flexing sizable talent and vocal muscles in the process. This performance of “When You Wish Upon a Star” is no exception to that rule. It deserves to be listened to multiple times.

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

An unbelievably talented, award-winning trio, The Texas Tenors, turned in a lovely medley of John Denver’s most memorable and beloved hits on Larry’s Country Diner.

Decades after his death, singer-songwriter John Denver’s work remains popular. John’s melodic and soothing voice and beautifully written words make his songs a treat to listen to every single time. He is easily one of the most influential and recognizable singer-songwriters ever.

Not only are John’s original versions immensely enjoyable, but other musicians have churned out a few pleasant covers. This includes one recent performance from The Texas Tenors. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the 3-time Emmy Award-winning group appeared on Larry’s Country Diner. The guys thrilled the audience with a masterful musical mashup of John Denver’s most recognizable songs.

Their short but thoroughly enjoyable performance begins with the guys belting out the lyrics to “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.” Next, after a few verses of the 1970 song about living down on the farm, they seamlessly transition into arguably John’s most popular song: “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”

“Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, Mountain Mama
Take me home, country roads”

The guys’ harmonies are outstanding as they demonstrate their incredible level of musical talent. There isn’t a missed or flat note throughout the entire 3-minute clip. 

The guys even manage to get the audience in on their performance. After requesting that everyone get involved and “sing along with us,” the entire diner is clapping along and mouthing the lyrics.

Even those who aren’t big country music or bluegrass fans still love themselves some John Denver. At the bare minimum, they appreciate his hits, even if they aren’t familiar with any other John Denver songs. 

Who doesn’t love the simple but memorable lyrics and melody of “Take Me Home, Country Roads?” 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

A musically gifted young woman turned in a stunning performance of “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!,” a tune from the legendary disco-era group ABBA, on the violin. 

The Lord has blessed everyone with many gifts, talents and skills. While those gifts are from God, on loan to us for a limited period, He expects a good return on His investment. We are supposed to use, invest in and multiply those talents and glorify His name in the process. 

One way to bring glory to and honor His name is simply by using those skills and abilities. Karolina Protsenko has been blessed with a ton of musical talent, specifically on the violin. In a clip posted on YouTube, the teenage violinist performs a lovely rendition of “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!”

“Gimme, gimme, gimme a man after midnight
Won’t somebody help me chase the shadows away?
Gimme, gimme, gimme a man after midnight
Take me through the darkness to the break of the day”

Not only is she excellent on the violin, playing the stringed instrument with expertise and at a rapid pace, but she also seems to enjoy performing. Throughout the entire 3-minute and 20-second clip, she dances, hops and twirls all around the street as a sizable crowd takes in her stunning performance. 

A couple of people taking in the upbeat and catchy violin cover of “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme” move and groove along to the music. They slightly move their body to the beat. 

Even if someone is not the biggest ABBA or disco fan, it’s still easy to appreciate Karolina’s talent and skill on the violin. 

Several who commented on the video’s YouTube link mentioned how much they loved Karolina’s cover of the ABBA song.

“That was awesome, Karolina! Looks like you were having fun playing that song too! So much energy! Love it!” one person wrote.

“ABBA wrote some amazing songs, this being one and your beautiful violin playing does it awesome justice, BRAVO!!!!” another individual added. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

A talented young woman, Allie Sherlock, showed off her God-given gift for creating beautiful sound with a stunning cover of a beloved hit by The Pretenders.

Life is a series of unexpected situations and events – the good and the not-so-good. On the road of life will come plenty of times for joyous celebrations but also instances that cause extreme hurt, heartache and pain. No one will get out of life unscathed. Jesus Christ endured a painful, agonizing and wholly undeserving death and He was perfect. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Allie Sherlock turns in yet another dazzling sidewalk performance. This time, the talented musician covers The Pretenders’ classic tune, “I’ll Stand by You.”

“I’ll stand by you
I’ll stand by you
Won’t let nobody hurt you
I’ll stand by”

Once again, Allie shows that God has blessed her musically. Her distinct and soothing voice could be listened to for hours at a time. There likely isn’t a song or a genre of music that she could not sing and do so in an extraordinary fashion. 

As the lyrics make clear, everyone needs someone to lean on and depend upon in life. Life's stresses, worries and burdens are often way too much for any person to attempt to shoulder. Life can even get to the point where going on seems an impossibility, and throwing in the towel is a much better option.

Luckily, there is One who never leaves nor forsakes us. Even in those rough periods of life, when we’ve reached our limit, Jesus Christ remains by our side, always guiding, directing and protecting. He also provides shelter and comfort to the weary. 

He is a loving, faithful and righteous God. He has never failed us yet, with no indication that will ever happen. He will always stand by us during life’s storms and battles. 

1 Corinthians 2:5 “So that your faith might be based not on man’s wisdom but on the power of God.”

An unbelievably talented group of bluegrass musicians who make up the band, Southern Raised, turned in a stunning and awe-inspiring cover of the classic song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

“The Wizard of Oz” is a beloved film that continues to be heavily viewed by many. From Dorothy’s ruby red slippers, Toto, the flying monkeys and the yellow brick road, the film is memorable for many reasons. 

Another reason why “The Wizard of Oz” remains so popular more than 80 years after its initial release is because of its many classic songs. In a clip posted on YouTube, the band Southern Raised gives the film’s most popular tune, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” a bluegrass makeover.

The performance of the song first performed by Judy Garland is another in a long line of fantastic covers from Southern Raised. It’s a delightful and dazzling take on the tune loved by many, one that is sure to bring up a feeling of nostalgia.

“Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true”

This is a near-perfect cover. The instruments are expertly strummed and plucked. The vocal performances are outstanding, especially from the young woman sitting center in the clip. Her beautiful voice singing the memorable lyrics makes their version an enjoyable listen.

Many others who commented on the video’s YouTube link agreed wholeheartedly and expressed their delight with Southern Raised’s performance of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

“Wow! What a fresh and beautiful sound unrolling like satin; a rich sheen and voices and instruments. Beautiful renditions with a full and complete sound,” one person wrote.

“This sounded totally awesome. I always look forward to the songs that y’all record, A lot of people have done covers of this song but not as good as this,” a second individual added.

“WOW! What an awesome version of this classic song…well done!” someone else wrote. 

Psalm 95:1 “O come, let us make songs to the Lord; sending up glad voices to the Rock of our salvation.”

A young woman, Angelina Jordan, showed off her stunning, God-given singing voice, performing “What a Difference a Day Makes” on Little Big Shots.

No two people are the same. Everyone has been blessed with different skills, talents and gifts. Some may have gifts that are more readily apparent than others, but all have God-given abilities.  

Now, what we do with and how we use those talents remains entirely up to us. However, we are supposed to use those gifts to bring glory and honor to His name. One way to magnify His name is by simply using those skills the Lord has given. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Angelina Jordan demonstrates her incredible singing voice for all to hear. She puts on a fantastic performance of Dinah Washington’s classic, “What a Difference a Day Makes.”

“What a difference a day makes
24 little hours
Brought the sun and the flowers
Where there used to be rain”

Soon after the music begins and Angelina starts singing, it’s clear this young woman has the voice of an angel. Her voice pairs perfectly with the tune’s lovely lyrics and melody.

It's almost unbelievable a voice that sounds that good, professional and experienced is coming out of someone so young. She has been blessed with talent beyond her years. 

Several who commented on the YouTube link were stunned by the young woman’s outstanding voice, claiming it was from heaven. 

“One of the most unique voices coming out of these shows. It’s all natural. She needs a lot more exposure,” one person wrote.

“The sweetest voice this side of heaven!” another individual added. 

“Truly a voice from heaven!” someone else declared.

Most people will wholeheartedly agree that Angelina has the ability and the talent to sing anything and knock it out of the park, much like her appearance on Little Big Shots. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ be in you in all wealth of wisdom; teaching and helping one another with songs of praise and holy words, making melody to God with grace in your hearts.”

One of the biggest groups from the 70s and 80s, Earth, Wind & Fire, took the stage on The Voice and gave an outstanding performance, playing a medley of their most popular and beloved hits.

There are some songs that a majority of the population instantly recognizes within the first few notes. Classic tunes from The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash fall into this exclusive category of beloved songs. When those songs begin playing, you can’t help but sing and tap your toe along.

Earth, Wind & Fire is another group that has produced several memorable tracks during their career. In a clip posted on YouTube, the legendary group appeared on The Voice and played those beloved hits.

Who doesn’t love “Boogie Wonderland,” “Let’s Groove” and the iconic “September?” 

“Do you remember, the 21st night of September
Love was changing the mind of pretenders
While chasing the clouds away”

The guys sound absolutely fantastic! They put on a show-stopping performance that had the entire studio audience singing and dancing. 

Their music is so infectious that you can’t help but provide your own vocals as well. Listening to an Earth, Wind & Fire song will instantly improve your mood! 

Others who commented on the YouTube link mentioned how much they loved and adored their performance on The Voice.

“It’s amazing how these guys sound as good as they did 45 years ago!!” one person wrote.

“I have no idea how The Voice got Earth, Wind, and Fire, but this honestly feels like the biggest stars they’ve ever gotten,” a second individual added. 

“One of my fav groups. Been listening for over 50 years. They still got it,” someone else posted.  

Earth, Wind & Fire songs are still in heavy rotation on radio stations today. Television shows, commercials and films also heavily use the legendary group’s terrific music. 

Psalm 95:1 “O come, let us make songs to the Lord; sending up glad voices to the Rock of our salvation.”

A talented young man who looks similar to Elvis Presley, Elliot James Reay, turned in a dazzling cover of a classic hit from The Beatles.

No two people are 100 percent alike. Everyone has their own individual preferences, likes, dislikes and tastes. Most people will have slightly different opinions on food, television shows, films and vacation spots. 

However, when it comes to music and some of the most influential bands of all time, it’s hard to name one more universally loved than The Beatles. The Beatles, during their short time together, were surprisingly prolific. Their many classic tunes are still widely heard and easily identifiable, often within the first few notes.

In a clip posted on YouTube, Elliot gives a stunning performance of one of the Fab Four’s classics, “Something.” Elliot’s vocals are outstanding, as is the entire band who backs up the young crooner and plays the legendary tune. 

“Something in the way she moves
Attracts me like no other lover
Something in the way she woos me
I don’t want to leave her now
You know I believe and how”

No one will ever be able to top the version first put out by The Beatles. That will simply not happen. But Elliot’s rendition, the short 3-and-a-half-minute clip, is still enjoyable. As far as covers of “Something” go, this is easily among the best. 

Other people chimed in with their love and adoration of Elliot’s performance of The Beatle hit, sharing their thoughts on the video’s YouTube page.

“Hey Elliot, you have such a unique voice, this is an amazing experience!!! Thanks for sharing your talent!!!” one person wrote.

“Being English, I was raised on the Beatles. This rendition is beautiful! Well done Elliot!” a second individual added.

“Elliot another amazing performance!!! Thank you so much for sharing the gift God gave you with us. You’re truly gifted,” someone else mentioned.

Psalm 104:33 “I will make songs to the Lord all my life; I will make melody to my God while I have my being.”

Two musically gifted young women, Allie Sherlock and Leila Jane, put on a fantastic and stunning performance of an Elvis Presley classic on the side of the street.

Elvis Presley is a massive, legendary figure in the world of entertainment. Even decades after his death, his songs and movies are still widely heard and seen. His iconic and beloved tunes have received the cover treatment from scores of musicians, including two young street performers.

In a clip posted on YouTube, the two bundled-up musicians treat the crowd who has gathered to listen and unsuspecting passersby to a rendition of “Heartbreak Hotel.” It’s such a terrific and delightful cover that the “King of Roll and Roll” would have likely given his wholehearted approval.

“Well, since my baby left me
I found a new place a new place to dwell
It’s down at the end of Lonely Street
At the Heartbreak Hotel”

During their performance, Allie strums on the guitar and provides vocals, while Leila also shoulders some singing responsibilities. Allie kicks off the song by belting out the tune’s catchy and memorable opening verse. Leila comes in on the second verse, demonstrating her magnificent singing voice.

Both young women sound fantastic. Each even uses a bit of growl/southern drawl in their voice that Elvis uses to great effect in his version. 

The two talented women have picked up quite the crowd. About halfway through the clip, the camera swings around and shows the sizable audience that has gathered to watch Allie and Leila’s Elvis Presley cover.

Elvis Presley is often covered and imitated but will never be replicated. He was a one-of-a-kind entertainer who could sing, dance and even act. His many films and songs are legendary. 

But despite all that, Leila And Allie’s cover of “Heartbreak Hotel” is still thoroughly impressive. Even the most diehard of Elvis fans will appreciate their rendition. 

Psalm 95:1 “O come, let us make songs to the Lord; sending up glad voices to the Rock of our salvation.”

The Queen of Country Music, Reba McEntire, and Jacquie Roar turned in a stunning and awe-inspiring duet to Wynonna Judd’s hit “No One Else on Earth.”

Some songs are so catchy, upbeat and fun that they transcend genres. Those tunes are able to crossover and find an audience with people who don’t typically enjoy country, rock, pop or some other genre. When people who aren’t country fans are humming and singing a country track, that’s when you know a song is a hit.

In a video posted on YouTube, Reba and Jacquie take The Voice stage and perform a track that fits perfectly in that exclusive category: “No One Else on Earth.” 

“No one else on Earth
Could ever hurt me
Break my heart the way you do
No one else on Earth”

The two gifted musicians’ duet is incredible, with their voices complementing one another perfectly. No one appears to be trying to outshine or outdo the other. Instead, they both seem more interested in delivering the best performance possible. And they appear to have reached their goal.

From the opening moments of the performance, the studio audience is on their feet, cheering and applauding. Reba’s fellow The Voice coach, John Legend, is spotted with a huge smile as he moves ever so slightly to the beat. 

You’ll likely find yourself watching this stunning duet multiple times. Soon enough, you may even sing and move a toe or two to the infectious beat. 

The song’s lyrics that detail someone dealing with a breakup and a broken heart aren’t the happiest in the world. But the exquisite vocal performances and the upbeat, fast-paced melody make for a most enjoyable listening experience. 

The only way to have made this performance any better would have been if Wynonna had walked out on stage and joined them at some point. That would have sent the studio audience, the judges and those watching at home wild.

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

Bluegrass and country music group Southern Raised turned in a marvelous cover of a classic tune by the legendary Dolly Parton.

Nearly every band in existence has performed a cover or two. It’s a timeless tradition and practice that every musician has done at one point or another during their career. Even some of the most well-known and beloved artists play the songs of their fellow musicians. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the incredibly talented group Southern Raised plays Dolly Parton’s beloved song “Jolene.” It’s a cover that you must hear to believe. It’s a simply fantastic rendition, especially the vocal performances. 

“Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Oh, I’m begging of you, please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him even though you can”

The young woman’s voice, the lyrics and the expertly played instruments combine to make a lovely and dazzling cover. The video is more than worth several plays and listens. 

This is a cover that those who love and adore the original from Dolly will appreciate. The musicians in the clip do the song justice, bringing much emotion and talent to their upbeat and catchy performance. 

The legendary Dolly would also likely give her enthusiastic approval to Southern Raised’s cover of her hit from the 1970s. 

Others who commented on the YouTube link expressed their love and utter delight at Southern Raised’s cover of “Jolene.”

“This is the best group I follow! Vocals are so beautiful by all of them! Bass singer is absolutely amazing beautiful the best! Would love to met (sic) them and listen to them in person,” one person commented.

“I totally loved your version of this song!!! The whole band did awesome, but MAN, DID I LOVE THE VIOLIN PLAYING and the singing!!!” a second person added. 

“I’ve heard several versions of this song and this by far is my favorite! Thank you!” someone else wrote. 

Psalm 95:1 “O come, let us sing to the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation.”

While a man with sunglasses sits at a piano, a young woman begins to wow the shopping crowds. In this video, a teenager dazzles with “Ave Maria” performance.

As the elevator ascends and descends right behind this duo, and people are casually walking by, a young woman and her accompanist begin to perform a classic Christmas hit. “Ave Maria” is a captivating and melodically intriguing song. 

The student’s name is Miranda, and her teacher is Dr. Brendan Kavanagh. She focuses on the lyrics found on her phone and vocalizes with such confidence and joy. Her voice is truly angelic.

Miranda has a stunning soprano voice, which causes others to gather around. The crowd cheers at the end of their performance. They stand together and thank the onlookers. The two of them then talk about her love for opera. Dr. Kavanagh tells the camera to check out more of Miranda’s music. She shares her Instagram at Miranda OA.

It is really wonderful watching the music teacher show such faith and confidence in his student. What is also beautiful is the two of them sharing their love for music across the generations. I love how Dr. Kavanaugh is promoting this young woman in her specific gift. 

Although the teacher is likely far more experienced than his student, he is cultivating her talent and directing others to her work. This is a sweet reminder that God has entrusted us as His children with His callings and gifts. Apart from Him, we can do nothing, but He provides us with platforms of opportunity, and we ultimately redirect those moments for His glory.

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

Country music singer Tim Atwood gave a stunning performance of one of the best-known Christian hymns of all time, “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” on Larry’s Country Diner.

Death is commonly the biggest fear for most people. But death is also something that everyone will, at one time or another, experience. Likely, death has already impacted our lives in one form or another. Nevertheless, the uncertainty and many unknowns surrounding death are frightening. 

However, because of Christ’s willing sacrifice on the cross and His resurrection, we do not have to fear death. Christ’s paid the price, shedding His blood for you and me. He won the victory over sin and death. 

“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” is a tune about facing death with peace, certainty and a lack of fear only found in Christ. For those in Christ, death is not the end because there is everlasting life with Him. Death no longer has a hold or carries any sting because of Christ’s sacrifice. He, and He alone made a way.

Praise God!

“Swing low, sweet chariot
Coming for to carry me home
Swing low, sweet chariot
Coming for to carry me home”

Before getting into his moving and emotional performance, Tim shared a rib-tickling situation he witnessed at church one day. 

“I was at church the other day, and as I was leaving, the preacher was back shaking hands with everybody,” he said. “And a little boy walked up and shook hands with the preacher, and he put $5 in the preacher’s hand.”

Of course, as Steve mentions, the preacher was momentarily confused by the youngster’s unexpected generosity. But it quickly all made sense.

“The preacher said, ‘Son, you don’t have to do that,’ Steve recalled. “He said, ‘Yeah, I think I do. My dad said you’re the poorest preacher we’ve ever had.’”

Romans 14:8 “For whether we live, we live to the Lord; or whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.”

Most will have a hard time recalling any version other than Gene Wilder’s in the 1971 movie Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, but The Hound+The Fox, along with their friends, perform “Pure Imagination” in their own lovely, dreamy way.

“Pure Imagination” was written by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newly for the soundtrack of the original Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, which was based on Roald Dahl’s 1964 novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. And, to confuse matters, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is the 2005 reboot film based on the same book and starring Johnny Depp; however, the song was never sung in Johnny’s movie.   

In this stunning rendering of the song, The Hound+The Fox invites their fellow Oregonians and good friends to join them. 

The Hound+The Fox are husband and wife, Reilly and McKenzie Zamber. The crazy talented couple began making videos about ten years ago, and they have performed with and/or produced videos for a variety of talented artists, including Pentatonix, Home Free, Tim Foust, and others.

In this video, they are joined by Peter and Evynne Hollens. The Hollens’ have plenty of musical irons in the fire as well, and if you aren’t certain and want to know exactly who is who, Peter and Evynne appear in the video side-by-side at 1:10.    

Listen to their exquisite voices—sweet, but without any tooth decay! McKenzie sings solo first, standing against a candied Christmas backdrop. Her voice is pure and perfect, and she is beautiful. In fact, all four of the singers are quite attractive, and the close-up shots make it hard not to notice that the ladies have deep, dark brown eyes; their husband's eyes are kind and blue-green in color.  

Their performance is calming and ethereal, and the video matches that mood wonderfully. And, while the original version was in a movie for kids, their rendering is on a full-length album primarily for babies; it’s entitled Star Songs: Lullabies for the Whole Family.

If this song takes you back to the 1971 classic movie, you’re in luck. Timothée Chalamet stars as Willy Wonka in the upcoming movie Wonka, scheduled for release on December 15. 

If you want a real gift for Christmas, check out another The Hound+The Fox performance as they sing Mary, Did You Know in this stirring video.  

“And so, my children, listen to me, for all who follow my ways are joyful. Proverbs 8:32