Introduction
“Three Wooden Crosses” is a song by Randy Travis, released as a single in December 2002. Written by Kim Williams and Doug Johnson, it became a defining hit for Travis and a significant piece in his career. The song is a poignant narrative that reflects on themes of faith, redemption, and the impact of a person’s life on others.
The song’s storyline centers around a tragic bus accident involving four individuals: a teacher, a preacher, a farmer, and a high school girl. The preacher dies in the crash, but his legacy and faith leave a lasting impression on the other characters. The “three wooden crosses” mentioned in the song symbolize the three lives that are changed by the preacher’s example.
“Three Wooden Crosses” was praised for its storytelling and emotional depth, capturing a blend of country music’s traditional narrative style with a modern message of hope and inspiration. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earned Randy Travis the Country Music Association (CMA) Award for Song of the Year in 2003.
Randy Travis’s performance of the song, combined with its compelling lyrics, solidified its place as a significant contribution to country music. It stands out not only for its lyrical content but also for its ability to resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. “Three Wooden Crosses” remains one of Travis’s most memorable hits, celebrated for its powerful message and evocative storytelling.