“Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” by the late Don Williams continues to be a testament to the singer’s legacy in country music. The song earned his 12th career number one, and it spent 20 weeks strong on the country music charts. And it wasn’t hard to see why. As John Lawless of Bluegrass Today noted, “Don Williams was a master of understatement,” and he always found songs that celebrated the simplicity of life, just like “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good.” It was a song that showcased traditional country sound, lyrics hammered from a faithful and trusting relationship with God, and a melody that can warm the spirits up despite the direst situation.
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The song was written by Dave Hanner and was released in 1981 as the third single of his eleventh studio album titled Especially For You. The first was “Miracles,” which peaked at number four, and “If I Needed You,” which he recorded with singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris and placed number three on the charts.
For You
And aside from giving personal inspiration and comfort to his listeners, the song also inspired a lot of cover versions. In 1982, just a year later after the release of the original version, Hanner (a member of Corbin/Hanner) recorded and released it as the b-side to his 1982 single “One Fine Morning.” Then in 1999, Canadian singer Anne Murray also covered the song as part of her inspirational album. A year after, Lee Ann Womack included her cover of the song on her hit album I Hope You Dance.
Keb’ Mo’, Paul Brewster, and Brandon Rhyder also recorded and released their own covers of the song. And the most recent cover was done by Jr. Williams under Mountain Fever Records, which was released this 2022. His cut featured a restrained arrangement, simply supported by raw instrumentation.
Listen to Don Williams‘ “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good,” as we all wish and pray for that for our lives as well.
