Jesus Cares For Me

Album: Hymned Again (2008)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This was the only original song on Hymned Again, the others being Millard's interpretations of classic hymns. The MercyMe singer explained to Christian Music Today why this sounds like a traditional hymn: "One of the things I planned for with this album was to write a song that sounded like it could've been written 80 years ago - so that if people didn't look at the credits, they might think it was just a hymn they were unfamiliar with."
  • This song is a duet with Vince Gill. Millard told Christian Music Today how he ended up recording with the country singer. Said Millard: "Once we had a chorus that just broke my heart, I started writing a verse for it. Eventually, Vince Gill became involved to sing backing vocals, and when he heard 'Jesus Cares for Me," he said, "Man, I'd love to take a shot at that." And I was like, Gosh, he'd sound perfect on this! It's one thing to ask Vince to do harmonies, but to actually showcase him on a duet - normally that's a battle with the record labels, but Vince can get away with anything like that. So it was great to have him and he nailed the duet."
  • Hymned Again was a follow-up to the MercyMe singer's 2005 collection of hymns, Hymned No.1. Millard explained to Christian Music Today that whilst the first album was recorded in honor of his grandmother, this set was done for his children. Said Millard: "The first record I did as a promise to my grandmother to do a hymns record before she passed away, so wanted to fulfill that. I think it was after hearing my kids singing these old songs and ask to hear 'The Old Rugged Cross' that I realized my church doesn't sing old hymns like they used to. It's such a big part of my upbringing and I want it to be a big part of my kids' lives too, even if it means I have to record them myself to make that happen."

Comments: 1

  • Dana Prather from TxI wish there was piano music to Jesus cares for me. Also, it would be awesome if Bart Millard would do another Hymned album.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Graham Nash

Graham NashSongwriter Interviews

Graham Nash tells the stories behind some of his famous songs and photos, and is asked about "yacht rock" for the first time.

Ralph Casale  - Session Pro

Ralph Casale - Session ProSongwriter Interviews

A top New York studio musician, Ralph played guitar on many '60s hits, including "Lightnin' Strikes," "A Lover's Concerto" and "I Am A Rock."

Rob Halford of Judas Priest

Rob Halford of Judas PriestSongwriter Interviews

Rob Halford dives into some of his Judas Priest lyrics, talking about his most personal songs and the message behind "You've Got Another Thing Comin'."

Corey Hart

Corey HartSongwriter Interviews

The Canadian superstar talks about his sudden rise to fame, and tells the stories behind his hits "Sunglasses At Night," "Boy In The Box" and "Never Surrender."

Incongruent Opening Acts

Incongruent Opening ActsSong Writing

Here's what happens when an opening act is really out of place with the headliner, like when Beastie Boys opened for Madonna.

Edwin McCain

Edwin McCainSongwriter Interviews

"I'll Be" was what Edwin called his "Hail Mary" song. He says it proves "intention of the songwriter is 180 degrees from potential interpretation by an audience."