About The Song
In the vibrant landscape of country music, Be A Light, released on March 30, 2020, as a single from Thomas Rhett’s compilation 20 Number Ones, stands as an uplifting anthem of hope and positivity, amplified by the star-studded collaboration of Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin, and Keith Urban. Co-written by Rhett with Josh Miller, Josh Thompson, and Matt Dragstrem, this heartfelt track was crafted in 2019 but released to resonate with audiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a message of encouragement amid global uncertainty. For mature listeners who cherish the 2020s as an era of country music that balanced emotional depth with social consciousness, Be A Light is a radiant gem, evoking nostalgia for a time when music united communities with inspiration and solidarity, delivered with a blend of vocal prowess and authentic storytelling.
From its opening chords, Be A Light envelops the listener in a gentle melody, anchored by a strummed acoustic guitar and subtle percussion that build into a soaring, anthemic sound. Produced by The Valory Music Co., the arrangement is a hallmark of modern country, blending traditional warmth with a polished, radio-friendly shine that lets each artist’s voice stand out. Thomas Rhett leads with his smooth, earnest delivery, joined by Reba McEntire’s commanding vocal strength, Hillary Scott’s soulful harmonies, Chris Tomlin’s heartfelt resonance, and Keith Urban’s emotive fervor. Lines like “In a world full of hate, be a light / When you do somebody wrong, make it right” carry a universal call to action, urging listeners to spread kindness. For older audiences, the song is a nostalgic echo of the 2020s, when music became a beacon of hope during crises like the pandemic and Nashville’s devastating tornadoes, reflecting the genre’s ability to inspire with clarity and purpose.
The lyrics of Be A Light are a litany of wisdom, encouraging listeners to “Don’t hide in the dark, you were born to shine” and to seek reconciliation and positivity. Its emotional universality lies in its timely message, written to process negativity but released to comfort during the COVID-19 pandemic, with proceeds donated to the MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund to support the music community. The song’s impact was immense, topping the Mediabase/Country Airplay Chart, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, and reaching number 42 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking first Hot 100 entries for Scott and Tomlin and McEntire’s return to the chart since 2011. Its performance at the 54th Annual CMA Awards with Rhett, McEntire, and Tomlin, and its nomination for CMA Musical Event of the Year, further cemented its cultural significance.
Reba McEntire, a country music legend, brings a seasoned gravitas to the track, her voice anchoring the collaboration with strength and tenderness. Her participation marked her 60th top-10 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, extending her record among female artists, and her 37th Country Airplay top-10, showcasing her enduring relevance. The collaboration, sparked by Rhett’s vision to unite voices for a cause, reflects the camaraderie of the country music community, with each artist contributing to a powerful narrative of resilience. For fans, Be A Light is a testament to McEntire’s ability to elevate any project, blending her classic country roots with a contemporary message.
For those who lived through the 2020s, Be A Light is a nostalgic touchstone, recalling a time when music offered solace amid global challenges. For newer listeners, it provides a glimpse into an era when country music embraced social good, crafted with soul and intention to inspire action. In today’s world of transient digital tracks, this song remains a beacon of timeless encouragement, its uplifting melody and thoughtful production inviting reflection on the power of kindness and unity. Whether revisiting the resilient spirit of country music or discovering this collaboration anew, Be A Light is a moving testament to music’s ability to foster hope, connection, and positivity across generations.