Mastering "There Was Jesus" requires strategic lyric memorization and vocal technique. Follow this systematic approach for optimal results.
Phase 1: Foundation Building
Immerse in the original recording: Listen to Zach Williams and Dolly Parton's version 10-15 times while reading official lyrics. Focus on their phrasing, dynamics, and emotional delivery. Note how their voices intertwine during harmonies.
Lyric deconstruction:
- Break into sections: Verse 1 (Williams), Chorus (Harmony), Verse 2 (Parton), Bridge
- Identify repeated phrases ("There was Jesus" hook, "I couldn't see it then" refrain)
- Highlight key transitional lines ("Every turn, every dead end")
Phase 2: Active Memorization Tactics
Sectional isolation with tempo control:
- Learn Verse 1 at 50% speed, focusing on Williams' raspy delivery on words like "demons" and "mercy"
- Practice the chorus progression (G-C-Em-D) while emphasizing dynamic shifts
- Use rhythmic speaking: Recite lyrics without melody using exact rhythmic patterns
Harmony mapping: Chart the vocal interplay where Williams carries melody and Parton's harmony floats above. Visualize their vocal paths before attempting duet segments.
Phase 3: Technical Execution
Breath control for sustained phrases:
- Target long phrases ("When the going got tough and the path got steep") with staggered breathing
- Mark breath points after "mountain" (Verse 1) and "road" (Verse 2)
Southern inflection calibration:
- Practice diphthongs in "out" (sounds like "a-out") and "eyes" (approaching "ah-eez")
- Add subtle vocal fry on "dust" and "trust" to match Zach's texture
Phase 4: Performance Integration
Progressive accompaniment removal:
- Sing with full track → acoustic version → a cappella
- Test recall by writing lyrics from memory between sessions
Emotional intention coding: Assign specific emotions to lyric blocks: desperation during "dead end" lines, gratitude on "worn-out shoes." Record and analyze emotional authenticity.
Mastery Maintenance
Schedule 15-minute focused drills 3x/week alternating between harmony practice and solo sections. If performing duet, rehearse opposite parts to anticipate partner cues. Final validation: Perfect execution when fatigued or distracted indicates true lyric mastery.
