Introduction: Embracing the Spirit of Christmas through Music
As the Christmas season envelops us in its warmth and joy, it’s a time to reflect on the messages of hope and identity that resonate in our lives. One such message is beautifully encapsulated in Lauren Daigle’s powerful song, You Say. Released on July 13, 2018, this song has not only touched hearts but also achieved remarkable success in the world of contemporary Christian music.
The Genesis of You Say
Lauren Daigle’s You Say emerged from a place of personal introspection and questioning. Following her first Dove Awards, Daigle entered the studio feeling overwhelmed by the highs and lows of her journey. Collaborating with producers Paul Mabury and Jason Ingram, the song became a reflection of her quest for identity amidst life’s tumultuous waves. Daigle herself described the writing process as a moment of confronting her insecurities and reaffirming her faith.
Musical Composition and Lyrical Depth
You Say is a song that combines a simple but effective musical composition with powerful and meaningful lyrical depth. The song’s tempo is slow and contemplative, creating a sense of calmness and reflection. The song’s structure follows a common chord progression, which creates contrast and tension between the different sections, and Lauren’s expressive and dynamic singing flawlessly conveys the emotions of the lyrics.
Lauren Daigle’s personal experiences served as the basis for the song’s lyrics, which she wrote after feeling overwhelmed by her success and dealing with self-doubt. The lyrics use simple but profound language to convey the message of finding hope and identity in God’s words. The lyrics also use imagery and metaphors to illustrate the theme of faith, such as “You say I’m beautiful / You say I’m strong / You say I’m enough / You say I belong.” The lyrics resonate with listeners who can relate to the universal struggle of finding their true selves and their place in the world.
A Record-Breaking Success
Upon its release, You Say quickly climbed the charts, peaking at No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating the Hot Christian Songs chart for a record-breaking 132 weeks. This achievement surpassed the previous record held by Hillsong United’s “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail).” The song’s commercial performance was equally impressive, earning a six-times platinum certification in the United States.
Accolades and Recognition
You Say garnered significant acclaim, winning the 2019 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song and the Top Christian Song at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards. Its impact extended beyond the Christian music sphere, resonating with a diverse audience and securing its place as a defining track of the decade.
The Heart Behind the Song
In Daigle’s own words, You Say was a daily reminder of truth and identity. It was her way of combating the confusion and uncertainty that often cloud our perceptions of ourselves. This message of unwavering faith and self-acceptance is particularly poignant during the Christmas season, a time when many seek comfort and reassurance.
The Song’s Enduring Legacy
As You Say continues to inspire listeners worldwide, its message of hope and identity remains relevant. Lauren Daigle’s heartfelt expression and the song’s universal appeal have cemented its status as a modern classic in Christian music and beyond.
Conclusion: A Timeless Message for the Christmas Season
As we celebrate this Christmas season, You Say by Lauren Daigle invites us to reflect on our own journeys of faith and identity. Its powerful lyrics and Daigle’s emotive delivery offer a reminder of the enduring strength and love that guide us through life’s highs and lows.
Lauren Daigle You Say Lyrics
Verse 1
I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I’m not enough
Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up
Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low?
Remind me once again just who I am, because I need to know
Ooh, oh
Chorus
You say I am loved when I can’t feel a thing
You say I am strong when I think I am weak
And you say I am held when I am falling short
And when I don’t belong, oh, You say I am Yours
And I believe (I), oh, I believe (I)
What You say of me (I)
I believe
Verse 2
The only thing that matters now is everything You think of me
In You, I find my worth, in You, I find my identity
Ooh, oh
Chorus
You say I am loved when I can’t feel a thing
You say I am strong when I think I am weak
And you say I am held when I am falling short
When I don’t belong, oh, You say I am Yours
And I believe (I), oh, I believe (I)
What You say of me (I)
Oh, I believe
Bridge
Taking all I have and now I’m laying it at Your feet
You have every failure, God, You’ll have every victory
Ooh, oh
Chorus
You say I am loved when I can’t feel a thing
You say I am strong when I think I am weak
You say I am held when I am falling short
When I don’t belong, oh, You say I am Yours
And I believe (I), oh, I believe (I)
What You say of me (I)
I believe
Outro
Oh, I believe (I)
Yes, I believe (I)
What You say of me (I)
I believe