About the Song
Softly and Tenderly is a classic hymn that has been covered by many artists over the years, but Alan Jackson’s rendition is particularly beloved. Released in 1998 on his album Hymns, Jackson’s version of the song is a powerful and moving ballad that has touched the hearts of millions of listeners.
The song’s lyrics are a plea to Jesus to come and save the lost and broken. The singer sings of their own sinfulness and despair, and they ask Jesus to come and take them away from their troubles. The chorus is particularly poignant:
“Softly and tenderly, Jesus is calling, Calling for you and for me, See, on the portals he’s waiting and watching, Watching for you and for me.”
Jackson’s vocals are full of emotion, and he delivers the song with a sincerity that is both heartbreaking and hopeful. The song’s arrangement is simple but effective, and it features a beautiful piano accompaniment that underscores the song’s message of hope and redemption.
Softly and Tenderly was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It was also certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The song won a Grammy Award for Best Southern Gospel Performance in 1999.
Softly and Tenderly is a powerful and moving song that has spoken to the hearts of millions of listeners. It is a song of hope and redemption, and it is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, God is always there for us.
Alan Jackson
Alan Jackson is an American country music singer, songwriter, and record producer. He has released 16 studio albums, and he has had 54 number one singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Jackson is one of the most successful country music artists of all time, with over 80 million albums sold worldwide.
Jackson was born in Newnan, Georgia, in 1958. He began playing music at a young age, and he formed his first band in high school. After high school, Jackson moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue a career in music. He signed his first record deal in 1989, and he released his debut album, Here’s a New Man, that same year.
Jackson’s music is known for its traditional country sound and its heartfelt lyrics. He has often been called the “voice of the common man” for his songs about everyday life, love, and loss. Jackson is also a strong supporter of the United States military, and he has performed for troops overseas on numerous occasions.
Jackson has won numerous awards for his music, including two Grammy Awards, 29 Academy of Country Music Awards, and 13 CMT Music Awards. He has also been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
Softly and Tenderly is a classic hymn that has been covered by many artists over the years, but Alan Jackson’s rendition is particularly beloved. Jackson’s powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery make this song a truly moving experience. Softly and Tenderly is a song of hope and redemption, and it is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, God is always there for us.