Upon releasing a collection of unreleased tracks in her fourth compilation album, Deep Tracks, Faith Hill featured a cover of “Come to Jesus” as the 13th song on her tracklist on November 18, 2016. It was originally recorded by Mindy Smith in January 2004. Hill’s version failed to enter the country charts, but the album took the 22nd spot at the Billboard Top Country Albums.
Hill’s impeccable performance of the gospel song was noteworthy that CMT News’ Alison Bonaguro wrote in a 2016 article that the last three recordings of the said album, including “Come to Jesus,” “sound modern and fresh, regardless of when she recorded them.”
Another critic from AllMusic named Stephen Thomas Erlewine emphasized that this was a testament to Hill’s style. “This is straight-down-the-middle AAA country music that might not be hooky enough to be a hit, but that certainly speaks to a well-manicured lifestyle,” Erlewine said.
The song was among her last releases under Warner Bros. Records. It has resonated with her loyal fanbase despite being overlooked by mainstream radio stations. Undoubtedly, “Come to Jesus” became one of Faith Hill’s critically acclaimed records, standing the test of time for its immense power and emotional depth.
Meaning Behind the Song
Faith Hill offered a fresh perspective when she released her rendition of Mindy Smith’s 2004 single, “Come to Jesus.” Hill dedicated the song to her mother, Edna Perry, who died on October 30, 2016. Before her mother’s death, she fulfilled her mother’s wish to release a gospel song.
For You
“Three weeks ago today, my mom passed away,” Hill shared in a 2016 Facebook post. “Mom often asked if I would ever get around to recording a gospel album. That’s all she wanted to hear me sing. I’m thankful that she was able to hear this song before she took a seat on the glory train. This is ‘Come to Jesus’ dedicated to my mom.”
The singer offered a bold and bluesy rendition that provided comfort to ailing parents. Her late father-in-law, Tug McGraw, had the opportunity to listen to her ‘rough cut’ before his passing in January 2004. When her husband, Tim McGraw, played the unmastered record, it became one of Tug’s favorite songs to play in his final weeks of battling with brain cancer.
Hill’s impeccable musicality in “Come to Jesus” seamlessly blends gospel and country into one, unfolding beautiful vocals that intertwine with profound lyrics. The country singer spiritually guides you to a deep connection and unity with the higher supreme. Her soaring vocals, paired with delicate arrangement of instruments, added enough depth to her immaculate rendition.
Deepen your faith as you listen to the heartfelt performance of Faith Hill’s “Come to Jesus.”
