‘Church in the Wildwood,’ performed by Brothers Of The Heart, takes listeners on a nostalgic journey. The song revives memories of childhood church experiences like Vacation Bible School and festive services. It’s a melody filled with warmth and fond recollections.
The song’s backstory is as intriguing as its melody. Dr. William S. Pitts composed it in 1957, before his medical studies. His inspiration struck during a coach stop in Bradford, Iowa. There, Dr. Pitts stumbled upon a picturesque wooded valley. He imagined a church in this serene spot. Surprisingly, when he returned five years later, his vision had materialized. A church was being built right in that valley. This structure is now known as the “little brown church” and remains a visitor attraction.
Brothers Of The Heart’s rendition at the Grand Ole Opry brings this story to life. The group, consisting of Ben Isaacs, Jimmy Fortune, Mike Rogers, and Bradley Walker, is renowned for their synergy. Cowboys & Indians Magazine praises them as a “country, bluegrass, gospel dream team.” Their performance is a blend of harmony and shared passion.
Though not related by blood, the members of Brothers Of The Heart share a deep bond. Each of them had a successful solo career before coming together. Bradley Walker speaks about their unique connection: “There’s anointing on the four of us.” He explains the rarity of their collaboration, “You can put four people together, four great soloists, and sometimes it doesn’t work. Yet this does. It’s the songs and our harmonies. This music takes people back to a certain time, and I think people are longing for that now.”
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One of my favorite old hymns and they do a great job with it.