Beethoven once said, “Music can change the world.”
There are moments when a song resonates deeply, shifting your mood or even your perspective. Nashville Hall of Fame songwriter Jeffrey Steele, who has penned hits like Rascal Flatts’ “My Wish” and Tim McGraw’s “The Cowboy in Me,” is known for crafting such emotionally impactful music. His recent collaboration with Aaron Lewis on the song “Am I the Only One?” skyrocketed to number one on the Billboard charts, despite minimal mainstream radio play. Steele’s songwriting has left an imprint on many artists’ works, including those of Keith Urban, Faith Hill, Eric Church, Miley Cyrus, and Trace Adkins.
In his latest release, voice, Steele aims to lend a voice to those who often feel ignored or underestimated—farmers, nurses, soldiers, police officers, and, importantly, children. He’s been reflecting on what it means to have a voice, and the feelings that come with not having one.
The chorus of this song is one that resonates so powerfully, it makes you wish you had written it. It draws you in and lingers, reminding you of the many people in need. Steele expressed to Breitbart News, “Every time someone hears this song, I hope it ignites a desire to help others, to be that microphone, and to speak out for those who can’t.”
One of the song’s standout lines reads, “The Charlie Kirk choir’s all lighting our lighters.” Steele wrote voice alongside fellow Nashville talents Chris Wallin and Colin Ray. Initially, that line was something about “wild teenagers lighting lighters.” But after attending a nationwide vigil in Franklin, Tennessee, in memory of Charlie Kirk, Steele had an epiphany. He saw thousands of people coming together—praying and singing—an experience that transcended politics and focused on God, love, and unity. “As a songwriter, I capture what I observe,” he noted. “What I saw was a choir of believers, and we really needed to express that togetherness.”
As a result, after discussing the vigil with Wallin, they opted to revise the lyrics. Steele said, “Charlie was someone who passed the microphone around, including to those who disagreed with him. Ultimately, this song is about free speech.”
The music video for voice presents a powerful performance from Steele, showcasing moving images of Americans from various backgrounds. This includes a young man told he’d never walk again, an elderly woman battling Parkinson’s, a Gold Star mother, and a soldier who sustained injuries in combat. The piece paints a poignant portrait of courage amid a politically charged atmosphere, often forgetting the everyday heroes surrounding us.
Steele reflected, “As we see it, society is becoming more divided along political lines. We should remember that there are only two true sides: the top and the bottom.”
Voice is available for purchase or streaming. Follow Jeffrey Steele on Instagram for updates.
The lyrics of voice capture a raw sense of struggle and hope, painting vivid images of various life experiences that speak to the silent among us. It encapsulates a longing for a voice that resonates deeply, inviting listeners to stand up and advocate for those who cannot. It begs the question: can you uplift others and raise your voice now? Will that call be answered? Yes, it will be heard. I will be your voice.
