I Can Only Imagine
MercyMe
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
I can only imagine what it will be like When I walk by your side I can only imagine what my eyes will see When Your face is before me I can only imagine Yeah Surrounded by Your glory What will my heart feel Will I dance for you, Jesus Or in awe of You be still Will I stand in your presence Or to my knees, will I fall? Will I sing hallelujah Will I be able to speak at all I can only imagine I can only imagine I can only imagine when that day comes And I find myself standing in the sun I can only imagine when all I would do is forever Forever worship You I can only imagine, yeah I can only imagine Surrounded by Your glory What will my heart feel Will I dance for You, Jesus Or in awe of you, be still Will I stand in your presence Or to my knees, will I fall Will I sing hallelujah Will I be able to speak at all I can only imagine, yeah I can only imagine Surrounded by Your glory What will my heart feel Will I dance for You, Jesus Or in awe of you, be still Will I stand in Your presence Or to my knees, will I fall? Will I sing hallelujah Will I be able to speak at all I can only imagine, yeah I can only imagine I can only imagine, yeah I can only imagine I can only imagine I can only imagine I can only imagine when all I would do Is forever, forever worship You I can only imagine
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
Written by: Bart Marshall Millard
Lyrics © ESSENTIAL MUSIC PUBLISHING
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Release and Recognition* "I Can Only Imagine" was released as the lead single from MercyMe's debut studio album, "Almost There," in 2001.
* It received the "Song of the Year" award at the 33rd GMA Dove Awards in 2002.
|
Commercial Success* The song gained significant commercial success, selling over 2.5 million copies, making it a double platinum single by RIAA.
* It peaked at Number 1 on the Billboard Christian Songs chart and reached the Top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
|
Origin of The Song* The lyrics were written by the band's vocalist Bart Millard. The song began as a series of notes on a yellow legal pad as he pondered what heaven would be like following his father's death.
* The composition took him only 10 minutes to write, which he later described as a "gift from God."
|
Religious Impact* As a Christian rock ballad, "I Can Only Imagine" has had a profound impact on listeners and has been performed at numerous Christian gatherings, church services, and memorial services.
* It is known for its powerful, emotional lyrics about the Christian hope of being united with God in heaven.
|
Popularity in Popular Culture* This song experienced an unusual crossover success, appealing to both Christian and secular audiences, which led to its inclusion in various popular TV shows, movies, and commercials.
* It was also covered by several mainstream artists, including Amy Grant, Wynonna Judd, and Katherine Jenkins.
|
Turned Movie* The song's backstory was made into a major motion picture, also titled "I Can Only Imagine," released in March 2018.
* In the film, actor J. Michael Finley portrayed Bart Millard and the story of his father’s transformation from abusive father to man of God.
|
Impact on MercyMe's Career* "I Can Only Imagine" propelled MercyMe's career and popularity in both Christian and mainstream music.
* The song continues to be the band's signature song, often closing their live performances.
|
Validation of Faith* The song’s success validated to many people that Christian themes could be successful in popular music.
* It helped in breaking down the barriers and creating opportunities for other Christian bands to pursue mainstream success.
|
Revival in Popularity* Following the 2018 film release, the song saw a notable surge in popularity, nearly two decades after its initial release.
* It reentered the Billboard Top 200 chart in April 2018, evidencing its enduring impact.
|
Impact on Listeners* Many listeners claim that "I Can Only Imagine" has comforted them in times of loss or grief, while others express that it has deepened their faith.
* The song has been often used as a testimonial tool by those who work in ministry.
|
Citation
Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"I Can Only Imagine Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 20 Sep. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric-lf/8153426/MercyMe/I+Can+Only+Imagine>.
Discuss the I Can Only Imagine Lyrics with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In