Kenny Rogers’ Tear-Jerking Rendition of “What A Friend We Have in Jesus”

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In 2011, country legend Kenny Rogers released one of the most tear-jerking covers of the hit gospel song “What A Friend We Have In Jesus” as part of his album, The Love Of God. 

The song was originally released as a hymn by preacher Joseph M. Scriven in 1855. Joseph wrote the hymn for his mother, who was living in Ireland while he was in Canada. Throughout the poem, Joseph expresses how, despite all the trials he faces in life, Jesus is always there to help us carry our burdens – comforting his mother, who is worried sick for him across the globe. 

Many people can relate to this feeling of longing for their loved ones, so the song became their strength, reminding them that even if they are not together, God is always there to look after them.

Charles Crozat Converse added a tune to the hymn in 1968, officially making it a gospel song that everyone can enjoy. Over the coming years, many known singers have released their versions of the song, and among them was Kenny Rogers.  

Kenny Rogers’s Tear-Jerking Rendition

Compared to the other renditions, Kenny Rogers’ cover was more melancholic because of his choice of instruments. Instead of using only a fiddle, Rogers incorporated different instruments like guitar, piano, and flute. 

Aside from that, his uniquely warm and raspy voice gave his rendition that extra sweetness that caught listeners’ attention. He is one of the few country artists who can easily crossover from one genre to another – and because of that, his powerful performance of “What A Friend We Have in Jesus’’ became one of Kenny Rogers’s greatest hits. 

If you haven’t checked it out, you can listen to Kenny Rogers’ cover of “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” below. 

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