About the song
“He Walked on Water” is a deeply moving country ballad performed by Randy Travis, released in April 1990 as the third single from his album *No Holdin’ Back*. The song stands out as a poignant homage to the narrator’s great-grandfather, capturing the admiration and reverence the singer feels towards this influential figure from his past. The song achieved significant success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and securing the top spot on Canada’s RPM Country chart.
Written by Allen Shamblin, “He Walked on Water” marked Shamblin’s first notable success as a Nashville songwriter. The inspiration for the song came from Shamblin’s own maternal great-grandfather, affectionately known as “Poppy” Fugate. Fugate, a cowboy from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, regaled Shamblin with stories of his adventurous past. This personal connection infused the song with genuine emotion and authenticity, which Randy Travis appreciated, particularly because it resonated with his own memories of his grandfather.
The ballad is composed in the key of D major, with a moderate tempo and a classic country 4/4 time signature. The structure of the song features a straightforward chord pattern that complements its reflective lyrics, creating a heartfelt and nostalgic listening experience.
The accompanying music video, which depicts Travis performing on his front porch, was well-received and even nominated for Video of the Year at the 1991 TNN Music City News Country Awards (now known as the CMT Music Awards). The visual portrayal of the song enhances its emotional impact, emphasizing the personal connection and tribute embedded in the lyrics.
Critical reception of “He Walked on Water” was generally positive, with Kimmy Wix of Cash Box magazine praising its relatable and detailed lyrics, while Thom Jurek of Allmusic offered a mixed review, noting that despite its commercial success, he considered it a less favorable choice. In 2012, Randy Travis revisited the song, re-recording it as a duet with Kenny Chesney for the compilation album *Anniversary Celebration*, further cementing its place in country music history.
Overall, “He Walked on Water” remains a cherished song that reflects the deep bonds of family and the enduring legacy of past generations, resonating with listeners who appreciate heartfelt storytelling in country music.
Video
Lyrics
He wore starched white shirts buttoned at the neck
And he’d sit in the shade and watch the chickens peck
And his teeth were gone, but what the heck
I thought that he walked on water
Said he was a cowboy when he was young
He could handle a rope and he was good with a gun
And my mama’s daddy was his oldest son
And I thought that he walked on water
And if the story was told, only heaven knows
But his hat seemed to me like an old halo
And though his wings, they were never seen
I thought that he walked on water
Well, he tied a cord to the end of a mop
And said, “Son, here’s a pony, keep her at a trot”
And I’d ride in circles while he laughed a lot
Then I’d flop down beside him
And he was ninety years old in ’63
And I loved him and he loved me
And Lord, I cried the day he died
‘Cause I thought that he walked on water
But if the story was told, only heaven knows
But his hat seemed to me like an old halo
And though his wings, they were never seen
I thought that he walked on water
Yeah, I thought that he walked on water