Music

A man singing in public got the surprise of his life when one of the biggest names in music walked up and joined him.

Many people desire a career in the entertainment field, as either an actor or musician. They want nothing more than to be on stage, show off their immense, God-given talent and be showered in praise by an adoring public. However, the competition for those professions is fierce, leading some to choose unconventional routes, hoping to get enough attention to propel their career forward. 

One man, Mike Yung, was singing “Eyes Closed” by Ed Sheeran in a New York City subway station. He sounds terrific, but little did he know, he had one prominent, recognizable audience member. 

Seconds into the video, as Mike belts out the lyrics to the beautiful song, a man appears behind him on his left. That man who walks up behind Mike is none other than the original performer of “Eyes Closed,” Ed Sheeran.

As Ed approaches Mike, Ed joins in and sings with Mike to his hit song. Mike eventually turns and is obviously taken aback to see Ed Sheeran standing right behind him!

“Oh wow!” Ed exclaims as he gives Ed a hearty handshake and a hug.

Mike, as he embraces Ed, tells him that “You just made my day.”

After the initial shock at Ed’s surprise appearance, Mike and Ed sing a few lines of “Eyes Closed” together. While this is going on, several people stand in the background, likely confused as to why one of the biggest names in music is singing in a subway station.

Let’s hope there are more Mike and Ed collaborations in the future! 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Dolly Parton, a legendary and iconic musician, performed an original song about the deep divides in our country.

With just one look on social media and a glance at the nightly news headlines, one could easily surmise that people are heavily divided on many issues. The pervasive nature of social media in society seems to have really highlighted those stark differences in opinions and the hatred that often comes with them.

At the annual Academy of Country Music Awards, Dolly gave a dazzling performance of her new song “World On Fire.” The song’s lyrics make it abundantly clear the track is about the deep divisions in society and those who fan the flames of hate and division. 

In the song’s opening verse, Dolly mentions that while she may not speak publicly on issues, she remains informed and in touch. She also adds that people get so worked up over every single issue.

The song’s second verse asks a very direct question: “When did we lose ‘In God we trust?’” People, on both sides of the aisle, put so much faith and trust in politicians, as if they can fix everything or really, anything. 

“I don’t know what to think about us
When did we lose “In God we trust?”
God Almighty, what we gonna do?”

In the song’s second verse, Dolly calls out politicians for their twisting and turning of the truth to fit their narrative and win votes. Greedy politicians, both past and present, are responsible for creating this current state of division. Those people would not be familiar with the truth if it bit them on the posterior, Dolly sings.

Common decency, truth, right and wrong, where have they all gone? Dolly’s new song captures something most people experience and sees likely every single day: the deep divisions on many different issues and topics. 

No politician, on either side, can fix such hatred. God working in and changing the hearts and minds of many is the only solution. 

Romans 12:21 “Do not let evil overcome you, but overcome evil by good.”

An American Idol finalist turned in a spectacular version of a beloved hymn years before he auditioned for the popular program.

The remaining contestants on American Idol are battling it out, hoping to capture enough hearts and votes to remain on the show. One singer who has consistently delivered, giving heartfelt and touching performances has been Iam Tongi. 

The young man from Hawaii has displayed his musical gifts and penchant for excellent song selection repeatedly. He could become the winner of the current season of American Idol. However, years before he went before and sang a word in front of Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan, Iam Tongi gave an impressive, moving performance of “Amazing Grace."

A video posted on Iam’s YouTube channel in 2021 shows the young singing and playing the guitar to the classic hymn. In the clip, Iam performs with a young woman, Eta Lauti. Much like Iam, she has boatloads of talent. Her voice is absolutely dazzling!

The video begins with both talented musicians sitting outside on a bench while performing. Placed throughout the video are photos and scenes from films featuring Jesus Christ. 

Iam and Eta’s talents are undeniable. It just appears to be so easy and effortless for them. Their voices are so beautiful, making for a lovely rendition of “Amazing Grace.”

Others who commented on the video were blown away by Iam and Eta’s version of the classic church hymn. Some even mentioned it as the best version of the song they’ve heard.

“Best version of Amazing Grace I have ever heard,” one person wrote.

“The most beautiful rendition I have ever heard. Brought me to tears. Next time I see my 92 year Mom I am going to play this for her,” a second YouTube user added. 

“Holy Holy Holy. Voices of Angels singing, and their harmony is flawless. I would love to hear more, more and more!!!!!” someone else posted.

Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brother, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

One of the biggest names in music was joined by a comedy legend to sing an iconic and beloved song.

Carol Burnett has kept people laughing for decades. Due to her abundant comedic talent and lightning-fast wit, Carol always brought tons of fun and laughter to her television program, The Carol Burnett Show. Even decades later, The Carol Burnett Show remains a beloved program that still makes audiences laugh with its talented cast and off-the-wall sketches. 

Carol repeatedly displayed her ability to send audiences and even her castmates into uncontrollable laughter. In addition to comedy, Carol showed she could sing, ending every episode by singing “So Long.”

During an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Carol didn’t have to perform “So Long” solo. Instead, Kelly joined Carol and the two made it a beautiful duet. 

While sitting down, Carol and Kelly belt out the lyrics that most people likely know by heart. About 30 seconds into the clip, Carol even does her signature move, which she did during every performance of “So Long.” She tugged on her left ear.

The two women sound terrific together! Despite her advanced age, Carol’s voice still sounds great. 

At the end of their song, Kelly throws herself back in her chair and is all smiles. It’s obvious she cannot believe what she was privileged enough to do. Kelly then pops up out of her seat and gives Carol a warm and loving embrace.

Kelly obviously has a ton of respect for the talented and lovely Carol Burnett, who just turned 90 years old. 

Right before the clip ends, Carol can be heard telling Kelly, “You’re a doll.”

The audience also appreciates the television history that was made right before them. They erupt in a round of thunderous applause. 

What an awesome, moving and touching moment between two very talented women. 

Psalm 105:2 “Sing to him, sing psalms to him: talk you all of his wondrous works.”

One man used his powerful voice to belt out an awe-inspiring cover of an iconic hymn.

Hymns are beloved pieces of music. Churches for decades have played these beautiful songs for their congregations. Their beautiful sound and truth-filled lyrics make these songs timeless works able to fit into nearly any type of service imaginable.

However, whenever hymns are performed, it’s usually by a church choir or by someone with a more country, gospel music background. But Dan Vasc does not sing either of those genres of music, which is what makes his version stand out. 

According to the About section on his YouTube channel, Dan is a heavy metal singer. In fact, Dan describes himself as the “#1 Amazon charting metal singer, composer, youtuber and business owner who likes to talk about himself in the third person.” 

Nevertheless, Dan performs a stunning rendition of arguably the most well-known and beloved hymn of all time, “Amazing Grace.” In a video posted to YouTube, Dan showcases his incredibly powerful and awesome voice.

Simply put, Dan’s rendition is show-stopping. His voice helps to remind listeners of the compelling message about God’s love and grace contained in the song’s lyrics. The lyrics are moving, touching and heartfelt. They never get old and stale no matter how many times you hear them.

“Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind but now I see”

Others who commented on the video also praised Dan’s terrific cover.

“Had me in tears. Extremely moving,” one person wrote.

“AMEN! Well sung! That was amazing! Brought me to tears and took me to church,” a second person added.

“That voice control. Soft and powerful at the same time. So much emotion without being melodramatic. Wow,” a third YouTube user wrote.

Hebrews 4:16 “Let us, therefore, come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

Two talented vocalists put on quite the performance for a legendary comedian.

Carol Burnett is a name synonymous with comedy, laughter and uproarious entertainment. For decades, Carol has shared her lightning-fast wit, humor and comedic talents with families, bringing tons of laughter into their homes. The legendary comedian recently reached a milestone, one many people are not lucky enough to hit. She turned 90 years old!

To recognize the special occasion and to celebrate Carol’s life and career NBC aired the special, “Carol Burnett: 90 Years of Laughter." The stars came out that evening to toast one of the all-time queens of funny, including Kristin Chenoweth and Bernadette Peters.

Kristin and Bernadette paired up, wearing gorgeous evening dresses, and sang a hilarious duet to “Only an Octave Apart.” 

Of course, “Only an Octave Apart” is a song Carol performed with the late Beverly Sills in 1976 at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, according to Playbill.com. 

Like Carol and Beverly’s performance back in the 1970s, Kristin and Bernadette go back and forth, trying to outdo one another. 

The song begins with Bernadette mentioning that she can sing a specific note, an F, rather low. Kristin responds that hers is a little bit higher than Bernadette’s. Bernadette goes through several more notes, stating that her note is on the lower side. But every time, without fail, Kristin announces that she can sing every note higher than Bernadette.

The two ladies' back and forth elicits several bouts of laughter from the audience, including Carol, who is in the front row, dead center. Carol, the camera catches, is seated right next to another very talented woman, the legendary Julie Andrews. 

The performance ends in laughter all around and with the studio audience giving the two women a well-deserved round of applause.

Proverbs 17:22 “A cheerful heart makes good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

A man with a surprisingly deep voice covered a beloved American folk song.

Love, desire, pain and loss are just some themes or topics that have kept songwriters going for decades. Every song has a reason for its existence, a feeling the songwriter was trying to convey. Was the musician trying to express their feelings following a breakup or thoughts on another emotional time in life? 

In the song “Man of Constant Sorrow,” the songwriter, given its title and lyrics, was in a continued state of distress and sadness. Trouble and heartache are unceasing. 

In a clip posted to YouTube, Geoff Castellucci covers “Man of Constant Sorrow.” But his version is probably unlike any you’ve ever heard of the song. He shows off his deep, deep voice, which is rather startling, at first. But due to the song’s lyrics about experiencing troubling situations, his voice works very well. 

“For six long years, I’ve been in trouble
No pleasures on here on earth I found
For in this world, I’m bound to ramble
I have no friends to help me now”

In addition to showing off his impressively deep voice, Geoff also displays his skill on the guitar as he sits along an old railroad track and strums on the instrument. 

Geoff also seems to have a firm grasp of the latest in video editing. Several times throughout the video, Geoff appears on the screen in four different places at the same time. 

Despite having lyrics about trouble and heartache, “Man of Constant Sorrow” is a song that can be listened to repeatedly. Likely, for most, the song reminds of scenes of George Clooney and the rest of The Soggy Bottom Boys belting out the lyrics in the classic film “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” 

It’s just such an enjoyable track.

Revelation 21:4 “And he shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and death shall be no more; neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain, any more: the first things are passed away.”

One child had a tough time keeping it together while singing at a special ceremony and he wasn’t the only one who shed a few tears.

Weddings are often emotional occasions. They are beautiful and memorable moments when two people come before friends, family and God to exchange sacred vows. Both agree to stay with one another through the good times and the bad, through sickness and in health. So, it's understandable why some may brush a few tears away.

A young man had to wipe away the tears several times while singing Calum Scott’s “You are the Reason” at his parent’s vow renewal ceremony. 

In the video posted on TikTok, the little guy is decked out in a tuxedo as he stands a few feet behind the happy couple, who stand holding hands, gazing at one another. The young man does not even make it 30 seconds into his performance before he’s overcome with emotions, taking a finger to his eye.

Seconds later, the talented singer, once again, wipes away tears. He does it several more times as he looks at the husband and wife, who stand prepared to renew their wedding vows. 

By the first minute of the three-minute video, the young man has pulled it together enough to make it through the rest of the song. However, tears continue to stream down his face. 

The child isn’t the only person who sheds a few tears in the clip. The man takes a handkerchief to his wife’s eyes. He then does the same to himself.

What a touching moment showing a young man who recognized and was moved by the beautiful display of love between the two.  

In addition to emotion, the young man showed he has been blessed with a dazzling singing voice. 

Exodus 20:12 “Honor your father and your mother: that your days may be long on the land which the Lord your God gives you.”

Four talented musicians use only their God-given instrument during an awe-inspiring performance of a classic song from the 1960s.

Countless verses throughout God’s Word urge His followers to care for and look after one another. In Mark 12, Jesus is asked about the commandments, about which one is the greatest. One of his responses to this inquiry is to “love your neighbor as yourself.” Loving your neighbor as yourself would, of course, include shouldering their burden from time to time. 

In a video posted to YouTube, four men perform a song without any musical accompaniment about carrying the burden of others. “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” is a beautifully written song about the many struggles along the road of life and lending a hand to someone in need. 

In the first verse, the four guys sing about an accurate description of the difficulties some face in life. Those problems can often become too much for one person. Instead, a friend, a brother, “can lend a hand.”

People dealing with troubling circumstances may not seek help, feeling they would be nothing more than an added problem to another. The lyrics in the third verse provide reassurance to individuals of that mindset.

“So, on we go
His welfare is my concern
No burden is he to bear”

Throughout the terrific performance, the guys sing the lyrics, which reiterate my brother’s problems are my concern. His reaching out for help is not a burden. “He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother,” the guys sing continually.

At the end of their stunning performance, the audience erupts in thunderous applause, showing the four talented men their appreciation. 

Galatians 6:1 “Brothers, if a man is taken in any wrongdoing, you who are of the Spirit will put such one right in a spirit of love; keeping watch on yourself, for fear that you yourself may be tested.”

The classic Johnny Cash performance of the ‘Bonanza’ theme song has the internet feeling nostalgic. A vintage video of Johnny on the Old Opry Show recently resurfaced on YouTube, and it’s going viral with over 632,473 views. The performance is a little over two minutes in length, and it was far longer than the theme song on the show. 

In a deep calm bass-baritone, he begins with, “The claim we hold is as good as gold, bonanza. Hand in hand, we built this land, the Ponderosa Ranch. Our birthright is this Cartwright bonanza. We here belong, and standing strong, wrong ain't got a chance.” 

Before he sings the beloved chorus line we all know by heart, “Day by day, work or play, ready side by side. Hello friend, come on in, the gate is open wide. Bound to be a fightin' free bonanza. Singing pines of boundary lines for the Ponderosa Ranch.” 

Bonanza ’stheme song was written in 1961 by Al Caiola and His Orchestra for the show Bonanza. One year later, Johnny Cash created his own rendition of Bonanza, and it became a beloved classic household song for the last four decades. The first version that was released actually flopped. One year later, Johnny and a friend took another try and created a better version with their own lyrics of the song when it became a hit. 

We are so glad this video resurfaced. Some fans are surprised that the theme song to the show actually had lyrics. One viewer commented, “Wow. 65 years old, and I'm still learning.” Another chimed in and shared his surprise and said, “I think that is very possibly the only song that I have never heard Johnny Cash sing before.” 

No matter whether you knew the classic version or heard Johnny’s version, it became a part of our lives with its catchy western beat of conquering the Midwest. We hope you enjoy watching the iconic Johnny Cash performing his version of Bonanza.

One young woman performed a beautiful song that honors and recognizes the most important women in our lives and their contributions.

Mothers play an important role in the family and in society. Women who are privileged enough to become mothers have a massive responsibility. They are literally giving birth to members of the next generation. A mother’s love, kindness and attentiveness to her children will shape and influence those kids for the rest of their lives. A mother’s importance cannot be overstated.

In the song “The Gift I’ll Give,” a talented young singer mentions that she has found the perfect way to honor her mother on Mother’s Day. Surprisingly, the lyrics state,  she approaches her mother with empty hands. 

There are no bows and ribbons to be found anywhere on this gift. Instead of buying and presenting something menial that will only bring momentary excitement, this gift will have an outsized influence. The singer states that she is going to reach out to someone in need.

They will be the face and hands of Jesus Christ for someone hurting. They will take that love, kindness and attentiveness that their mother displayed and taught them and show it to someone else.

“I will reach out my hand to someone in need
Be courageous and kind, like Jesus would be
I will build up my friends with words that I say
Be a light in my home every day”

Demonstrating Christ-like love for someone is a perfect and wonderful gift. Doing so could have widespread ramifications. Unexpected acts of kindness and love can change someone’s entire day, week, year or life. Any mother would be pleased to know they had a hand in raising someone who treated someone with such love, kindness and care. 

Showing Christ’s love to someone doesn’t cost anything, but it can literally mean a world of difference to an individual hurting.

1 John 4:19 “We love, because he first loved us.”

Two Grammy Award-winning musicians combined their immense talents together for an instrumental bluegrass song.

Steve Martin has enjoyed a successful, decades-long career in the world of entertainment. While Steve is best known for his comedic work and starring in such hits as “The Jerk,” “The Pink Panther” and more recently, Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” series, he is also an accomplished musician. 

Steve’s strumming on the banjo has won him critical praise and several Grammy Awards. Steve joins fellow musician, Grammy winner and banjo player Alison Brown for her song “Foggy Morning Breaking.”

Much like bluegrass music itself, the official video for “Foggy Morning Breaking” is very lowkey and doesn’t rely upon fancy lighting, fog machines or any other commonly used theatrics. Instead, the video focuses its attention on the musicians and the sound expertly constructed with the instruments.

The video begins with Steve arriving at the studio and wheeling his equipment in from the parking lot as he waves and greets everyone. The beautiful instrumental tune kicks in seconds after the video begins.

From that point forward, the video is an up-close and inside look at the musicians. Viewers see them as they prepare to get to work, fine-tuning their instruments, making last-minute changes before ultimately, strumming along together and creating beautiful music together. 

In addition to Alison and Steve, several other musicians are seen playing instruments in the video. One person plays the fiddle, while others show off their skills on the mandolin, bass and guitar. 

The result of the musicians’ steadied, focused and outstanding work together is a thoroughly enjoyable bluegrass instrumental. It’s literally music to the ears!

Anyone who even slightly enjoys and appreciates country and bluegrass music is sure to enjoy this lovely instrumental. 

Psalm 40:3 “He has put a new song in my mouth, even praise to our God. Many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in Yahweh.”

It is always great to have one powerhouse singer perform; however, when you can get two together, it’s a treat. In this video clip, Dolly Parton And Olivia Newton-John sing a 'Jolene' duet.

This classic hit was made popular by Dolly herself. In this version of the song, she is singing alongside the late Olivia Newton-John. Dolly begins by introducing the song and shares how the two artists have stayed friends over the years, and both love the song “Jolene.” They decided to do a duet together for Olivia’s upcoming project. Olivia shared that she is excited because she has always wanted to sing with Dolly.

The two begin their song. It is stunning. Olivia begins, and Dolly harmonizes. It is a different twist on the song, catering to Olivia’s own personal style, with Dolly’s original. Olivia sings so calmly and happily. Dolly sings with spunk. We even see some moments of people wearing COVID masks in the studio, and of course, Dolly has her own special pink mask. 

The two had clearly taken very good care of their voices. The harmonies and arrangement are absolutely beautiful. These two ladies are legendary singers and passionate about the message. 

They have a great song that takes a classic and puts a modern twist on it. Both appear to be having a wonderful time in the studio and enjoying themselves. It is pure beauty and makes us miss Olivia. Their voices together are easy listening and could be heard for hours on end. 

One viewer shared, “This is the very first time I have listened to Olivia’s voice since she has left us… what a beautiful treat to hear both voices together!!”

These two women have great talent and have come together to fulfill a dream of recording with one another. We are never too late to dream and to try new things.

“Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone.” Psalm 71:9

Two gifted musicians with lovely voices brought their immense talents together to sing a cover of a wildly popular country song.

Every so often a country song does manage to find an audience beyond just country fans. Tim McGraw, Faith Hill and Taylor Swift are a few artists who have accomplished that feat. However, you would be hard-pressed to find a bigger crossover hit within the last 20 years or so than Lee Ann Womack’s “I Hope You Dance.” 

Mia Black, a 16-year-old vocalist from Ireland, and musician Boyce Avenue took a stab at singing the beloved song. The result of their work together is simply astounding. It’s literally music to the ears.

In the video for the cover, posted to YouTube, Boyce sits on a stool and strums on a guitar. Mia also places herself on a stool a few feet away from him as she belts out the lyrics to the classic song. 

Mia and Boyce share singing duties. The young lady starts the song off, singing the first two lines as Boyce comes in on the third line in the first verse. 

From then on, all throughout the song, Mia and Boyce go back and forth, alternating singing responsibilities. The talented duo then sings the song’s sweet, simple but memorable chorus together. 

“Dance…I hope you dance
I hope you dance…I hope you dance
I hope you dance…I hope you dance”

Generally, covers are not as good or as well received as the original version. It makes sense, that’s the one everyone is familiar with and loves. Covers are always judged against their original counterpart. But Mia and Boyce’s version is still very enjoyable, pleasant and expertly performed. Their version doesn’t leave you yearning for the original. When it comes to covers, that's all anyone can ask. 

Psalm 98:4 “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, rejoice, and sing praise.”

Characters on a beloved television show sang an old, popular folk song.

The Andy Griffith Show is one of the most iconic television shows ever. Even nearly 50 years after it ended, the program and its iconic whistled theme song remain extremely popular. It’s not hard to find one or even several channels playing those black-and-white reruns featuring Andy, Aunt Bee, Opie, Barney and the whole Mayberry gang.

A clip posted to YouTube from The Andy Griffith Show features characters giving a musical performance and it’s not the program’s beloved theme song. In the clip, three characters – Andy, Opie and Peggy McMillian – all sit on the porch as “Down in the Valley” is sung.

Peg sings the lyrics to the folk song as Andy assists by playing the guitar. She has a terrific voice, which fits well with the song’s somewhat melancholy lyrics. 

Later, in the clip, near the end of the song, Andy joins and sings a few lines. Little Opie doesn’t take part in the musical performance. Instead, he sits silently and takes in Peg’s singing and Andy’s strumming on the guitar. 

Peg, according to the video’s description, played Andy’s girlfriend. She was entrusted with looking after the two gentlemen as the incomparable Aunt Bee was out of town.

While the song is not nearly as memorable or catchy as the program’s inventive and earworm theme song, the lyrics are still beautifully written.

“Angels in heaven know I love you
Know I love you, dear, know I love you
Angels in heaven know I love you”

Whenever people think of music and The Andy Griffith Show, they will instantly think of its theme song. But this clip is a good reminder that the show implemented more musical elements than just that song during its run. 

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”

You have to watch this talented mother and her two daughters sing the song ‘Smile’ by Charlie Caplin. It will, indeed, bring a smile to your face!

“Smile though your heart is aching. Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile, and maybe tomorrow, you'll see the sun come shining through for you”

The mother in this video is Lousie Thomas, and her daughters are Lucy and Martha Thomas. All of them are such talented singers, and Lucy Thomas was even on The Voice Kids UK a few years back. She shared in the YouTube caption of this video that ‘Smile’ was the song she sang in the Battle Round of The Voice Kids UK in 2018.

Lucy also shared a little bit about the background of this song in her video caption. “The music to ‘Smile’ was written by Charlie Chaplin in 1936. Lyrics were added by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons in 1954, and the song version was first recorded by Nat King Cole in the same year.”

In the music video, Lucy starts off the song, and then her mother and sister come in shortly after. They all have such beautiful voices, and their harmonies throughout the whole song are so lovely.

How wonderful it is to see them all loving and supporting each other while they are making the music video. And it is so heartwarming and touching to see them record this beautiful song together as they share their love of singing.

“Now we know where Lucy and Martha inherited those incredible voices and beauty. Mom's the word! Yes, we need more smiles than frowns these days! Well done ladies,” comments one person on YouTube after watching the music video.

“This trio is just absolutely amazing. What talent. It’s almost unearthly. Wow!” writes another person online.

We hope you enjoyed this special video of the Thomas women singing ‘Smile.’

Close your eyes and soak in this extraordinary cover of “The Sound of Silence” by The Ghost of Johnny Cash! 

This astounding recording isn’t one created by hi-tech computer tricks, piecing together Johnny Cash’s words and phrases posthumously. The word “ghost” is not meant to trick or mislead, but you may have to suspend belief as you listen to the cover—recorded not by Johnny Cash, but by an individual named David Radcliffe who goes by the moniker Ghost of Johnny Cash!

“The Sound of Silence” in this video is starkly different from the first two versions that were recorded by Simon & Garfunkel in 1964 and in 1965 with low-tech computer tricks. More on that in a bit. While their voices, to an amateur ear, sound tenor-esque, this voice is low, low, low! This version is slow, and the one we all recognize from way back when has a faster tempo. So, there is no confusing this solemn and impactful rendition from the more upbeat and artsy one.

On the other hand, the voice here sounds exactly like Mr. Johnny Cash, also known as The Outlaw or The Lone Ranger of Country Music. Instead, the artist is Mr. David Radcliffe, and he sings the song as about ten mostly black-and-white photos of Johnny appear. 

Viewers praise both the talent of Johnny Cash and the voice of David, noting in comments that this is exactly how one would expect Johnny Cash to do the song! They use the following words to describe the cover: authenticity, haunting, chills, goosebumps, reincarnation, hooked, masterpiece, and more. Truly, the performance is all of those things!

The original recording of “The Sound of Silence” was an acoustic version, and it did not perform well. But, without alerting the recording artists, Producer Tom Wilson overdubbed the original with electric instruments and drums. That one became a hit! And, aren’t we lucky that it did. Had it not become so well known and loved nearly 6 decades ago, David might not have seen a need to record it now as The Man in Black!            

“And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” Luke 12:7 

Two massively popular and talented performers recently sang a beloved, classic hit from Aretha Franklin together.

Aretha was a woman with an unmistakable, distinctive and powerful voice. She had a voice that could reach and hit notes few other singers could never even dream of touching. During her decades-long successful and prosperous career, The Queen of Soul produced such hits as “A Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools” and “Son of a Preacher Man.”

But as great as all those songs are, none are as memorable and loved as “Respect.” It’s a song still in heavy rotation today, heard on radio stations across the country. 

During an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, Reba McEntire and Jennifer Hudson discussed the iconic singer. Reba mentioned that she covered the hit back in the 1980s. Reba also stated that she once met Aretha but was wholly intimidated.

“I got to meet her,” Reba said. “She scared me to death. I wouldn’t even go up and talk to her.”

While she may not have met her, Jennifer also has a deep, personal connection to The Queen of Soul. She played Aretha in a 2021 film Respect, named after the iconic song. 

Jennifer and Reba also stated how much they loved “Respect,” which led to Jennifer suggesting they sing the song together!

Reba kicks off their impromptu performance while sitting and singing on the couch. Jennifer joins in on the chorus. They both sound terrific!

The studio audience absolutely loves their performance, applauding and cheering wildly. Several audience members even begin dancing to Reba and Jennifer’s stunning rendition of Aretha’s hit from the 1960s.

In the clip, Jennifer and Reba show they are two incredibly talented performers and seem genuine, likable and pleasant. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

The legendary Dick Van Dyke is a talented man who used his gifts to record a duet with a loved one.

Dick is a beloved Hollywood figure who has entertained audiences with his quick wit, unique sense of humor and impressive dance moves for decades. However, instead of thrilling audiences with a hilarious joke or clever anecdote, the “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” star recorded a duet with his lovely wife, Arlene.

In the video posted on YouTube, Dick and Arlene sing and dance to “Young at Heart.” To make the moment even more iconic, Dick is informed that the microphone he’ll be singing into was used by none other than Frank Sinatra.

“Young at Heart” is a lovely upbeat song about living, aging gracefully and enjoying life. The tune also points out that age is just a number and that being “young at heart,” and remaining open to new experiences and opportunities is what counts.

“Don’t you know, it’s worth every treasure on earth 
to be young at heart?
For as rich as you are
it’s better by far to be young at heart”

At approximately the 3:45-minute mark in the clip, the video cuts to Dick and Arlene in formal wear, dancing together. Dick shows that when it comes to dancing, there is no match. His moves would put men more than half his age to shame!

The video quickly shifts once again and shows elderly individuals living, laughing and just enjoying life. If you look closely, you may even spot some recognizable faces, including Tony Bennett, Stan Lee, Betty White, Mel Brooks and Kirk Douglas.

At the beginning of the clip, Dick makes a wise statement that perfectly sums up the message of his and Arlene’s catchy tune.

“New experiences are the only thing you can collect in life that end up being worth it,” Dick said.

Isaiah 46:4 “Even when you are old, I will be the same, and when you are grey-haired, I will take care of you: I will still be responsible for what I made; yes, I will take you and keep you safe.

A child turned in an excellent performance of a beloved tune from an iconic vocalist.

Some songs are so universally loved that people recognize the tune within the first few notes. Even decades after her death, most people, when they hear the name Patsy Cline, will immediately think of one classic track: “Crazy.”

“Crazy” is a song most of the population will spot from its opening notes. Due to its heavy use in commercials, TV shows and movies, even members of the younger generation will likely have a passing familiarity with the tune. 

One young lady, a member of that younger crowd, gave an absolutely thrilling performance of Patsy's enduring hit from the 1960s. In a video posted to YouTube, 7-year-old Evan Riley takes a stab at “Crazy.”

The video shows Evan standing in what appears and sounds to be a restaurant of some sort. Several empty black chairs and a man manipulating a soft drink machine are behind her. 

The child’s vocal performance is stunning. It’s fascinating and astonishing how much she sounds like Patsy Cline. Even at the young age of 7 years old, Evan has Patsy’s recognizable sound nearly nailed.

In addition to her ability to mimic Patsy’s sound, the young woman has a stage presence that is impressive. There is no instance in the 2-and-a-half-minute clip when Evan appears rattled or nervous even a little bit. This young woman is confident in herself and her awe-inspiring voice.

Before the clip ends, the crowd shows young Evan their appreciation by giving her a hearty round of applause with a few hoots and hollers thrown in as well.

To perform such an iconic song at that level at only 7 years old is frankly outstanding! Evan has been truly blessed with a ton of God-given musical ability.

Psalms 71:23 “My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my soul, which you have redeemed.”