About the Song
Some songs don’t just entertain—they reach deep into the heart, wrapping themselves around your memories, your faith, and your understanding of life’s greatest truths. That’s exactly what “Believe” by Brooks & Dunn accomplishes. Released in 2005 on their Hillbilly Deluxe album, this ballad quickly became one of the duo’s most powerful and spiritually resonant recordings—a song that transcends genre to speak directly to the soul.
From the first verse, “Believe” introduces us to Old Man Wrigley, a humble, faithful man who’s endured loss with quiet strength and unwavering belief in something greater than himself. Told through the eyes of a young boy who comes to learn life’s deeper meanings from his wise, elderly neighbor, the song becomes a tender meditation on grief, resilience, and the enduring power of faith. It’s not preachy—it’s personal, poignant, and profoundly human.
Ronnie Dunn’s vocal performance here is nothing short of extraordinary. With a voice filled with sorrow, reverence, and compassion, he delivers each line like a prayer. You can feel the emotion in his phrasing—the kind that only comes from truly understanding the weight of the story he’s telling. There’s no flash, no theatrics—just honest conviction, laid bare with every word.
Musically, the arrangement is gentle and restrained—acoustic guitar, soft keys, and swelling harmonies that never distract from the lyrics. The simplicity of the production allows the story and Dunn’s vocal to carry the full emotional weight. And that’s exactly what makes “Believe” so powerful. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most profound truths come in the quietest packages.
The song was widely acclaimed, earning CMA and ACM Song of the Year honors, and for good reason. It touched a chord with listeners from all walks of life—those who’ve lost loved ones, those clinging to faith in dark times, and those who understand that belief isn’t always about certainty—it’s about hope.
Even years after its release, “Believe” continues to be one of Brooks & Dunn’s most defining and unforgettable works. It’s not just a song—it’s a moment of stillness in a noisy world, a gentle invitation to reflect, remember, and hold on to what matters most.