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Randy Travis – Three Wooden Crosses

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“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

I remember the first time I heard Randy Travis’s “Three Wooden Crosses” on a quiet evening drive. The haunting melody and profound storytelling left me contemplating long after the song had ended, showcasing the power of music to touch the soul.

About The Composition

  • Title: Three Wooden Crosses
  • Composer: Kim Williams and Doug Johnson
  • Premiere Date: November 25, 2002
  • Album: Rise and Shine
  • Genre: Country Gospel

Background

“Three Wooden Crosses” is a poignant country gospel song performed by Randy Travis. Written by Kim Williams and Doug Johnson, the song was released in 2002 as the lead single from Travis’s album Rise and Shine. It narrates the story of four individuals—a farmer, a teacher, a preacher, and a prostitute—whose lives intersect tragically and meaningfully.

The song emerged during a period when Randy Travis was exploring more spiritual themes in his music. It was well-received by both critics and fans, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. This success marked Travis’s return to the top of the charts after several years, reaffirming his significant place in country music.

Musical Style

“Three Wooden Crosses” is characterized by its traditional country instrumentation, including acoustic guitar, fiddle, and gentle percussion. The arrangement is understated, allowing Travis’s emotive vocals and the song’s narrative to take center stage. The simplicity of the music enhances the storytelling, a common technique in country gospel that focuses the listener’s attention on the message.

Lyrics/Libretto

The song delves into themes of redemption, faith, and the impact of seemingly chance encounters. It tells how the preacher hands his blood-stained Bible to the prostitute before dying in a bus accident, leading to her transformation and the continuation of his ministry through her son. The narrative illustrates how acts of grace can have far-reaching consequences, emphasizing the belief that every life has a purpose.

Performance History

Since its release, “Three Wooden Crosses” has become one of Randy Travis’s signature songs. It has been performed at numerous concerts and events, often eliciting strong emotional responses from audiences. The song won the 2003 Country Music Association Award for Song of the Year, highlighting its significant impact within the genre.

Cultural Impact

The song transcended the typical boundaries of country music, resonating with a wide audience due to its universal themes. It has been featured in religious services and inspirational programs, reflecting its influence beyond the music industry. The story has sparked conversations about faith and the unexpected ways lives can be interconnected.

Legacy

“Three Wooden Crosses” remains a beloved song in Randy Travis’s repertoire and continues to touch listeners with its heartfelt message. Its enduring popularity speaks to the song’s ability to connect with people on a deep, emotional level, solidifying its place in the landscape of influential country music.

Conclusion

“Three Wooden Crosses” is a testament to the power of storytelling in music. Its moving narrative and soulful delivery invite listeners to reflect on the profound themes it presents. I highly recommend experiencing this song, particularly Randy Travis’s original recording, to fully appreciate its emotional resonance and timeless significance

Video

Lyrics

A farmer and a teacher, a hooker and a preacher
Ridin’ on a midnight bus bound for Mexico
One’s headed for vacation, one for higher education
And two of them were searchin’ for lost souls
That driver never ever saw the stop sign
And eighteen wheelers can’t stop on a dime
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there’s not four of them, Heaven only knows
I guess it’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It’s what you leave behind you when you go
That farmer left a harvest, a home and eighty acres
The faith and love for growin’ things in his young son’s heart
And that teacher left her wisdom in the minds of lots of children
Did her best to give ’em all a better start
And that preacher whispered, “Can’t you see the Promised Land?”
As he laid his blood-stained bible in that hooker’s hand
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there’s not four of them, Heaven only knows
I guess it’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It’s what you leave behind you when you go
That’s the story that our preacher told last Sunday
As he held that blood-stained bible up
For all of us to see
He said “Bless the farmer, and the teacher, and the preacher
Who gave this Bible to my mama
Who read it to me”
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there’s not four of them, now I guess we know
It’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It’s what you leave behind you when you go
There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway

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