When Zach Williams finished writing “There Was Jesus,” he sensed it was special—but he couldn’t have known it would become a lifeline for so many. Reaching out to Dolly Parton felt like a long shot, yet when she heard the demo, she didn’t hesitate. She recognized the cry in the lyrics, the ache of people who’ve walked through fire and wondered if God had forgotten them.
In the studio, Williams watched as Dolly’s voice wrapped itself around the melody, turning a great song into something sacred. She was gracious, present, making everyone feel seen—just as the song promises that no one is ever truly alone. When it climbed to No. 1 on the Christian charts, it wasn’t just another accolade for a country legend. It was confirmation that faith, sung with honesty and humility, still has the power to break chains and heal hearts.
