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Introduction
Joey + Rory’s “A Bible and a Belt” is one of those rare songs that feels like a heartfelt conversation between generations. This deeply personal track is steeped in nostalgia and reverence, painting a vivid picture of life lessons passed down through love and discipline. Rory Feek’s warm storytelling and Joey’s angelic harmonies bring the song to life, creating a tender homage to the upbringing that shaped so many in the heartland.
The title itself sets the tone: two symbols of guidance and correction, the Bible and the belt, represent the dual forces of faith and discipline that often defined a traditional upbringing. The song’s lyrics reflect on a father’s role in instilling values—sometimes with a kind word, and sometimes with a firm hand. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance between teaching right from wrong and nurturing a child’s spirit, capturing the love behind even the toughest lessons.
This song stands out not only for its poignant message but also for the authenticity Joey + Rory bring to their music. It’s rooted in the duo’s personal experiences and their deep appreciation for the values that shaped their own lives. Rory’s ability to weave vivid imagery into every line invites listeners to reflect on their own childhoods, evoking memories of Sunday mornings at church, heartfelt family talks, and the unspoken love of a parent who always wanted the best.
Listeners often describe “A Bible and a Belt” as a warm hug of a song. It resonates across generations, serving as both a tribute to parents who raised their children with strong values and a gentle reminder of the enduring impact of those lessons. Whether you’re someone who grew up in a similar environment or simply appreciate the art of heartfelt storytelling, this track is sure to stir your soul.
Joey + Rory’s music has always been a celebration of life’s simple truths, and “A Bible and a Belt” is no exception. It’s a testament to the power of faith, family, and the moments that shape us into who we are. This song isn’t just about looking back—it’s about carrying those lessons forward, sharing them with the next generation, and cherishing the timeless values that bind us together.
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Lyrics
They were both made of leather
Both black and frayed and worn
I was brought up to respect them
Since the day that I was born
One came here from England
It’s been handed down for years
The other one was ordered from a catalogue at Sears
One my mama read to me ’til I was well into my teens
And I thought all the other one was for
Was to hold up daddy’s jeans
‘Til I told a lie and learned it had another purpose too
Out behind the shed, my daddy said
“This will hurt me more than you”
‘Cause one had my daddy’s name on it
The other said King James
With love they taught us lessons
But we feared them both the same
One led us to heaven
And the other left a welt
But those were the days when kids were raised
With a Bible and a belt
I remember when I was twelve
I stole a dime store comic book
And how mama read where the scripture said to take back what I took
When I refused, my daddy grabbed arm and said “come on”
I needed more he knew than just Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
Well, sometimes it made me cry
Sometimes it made me fighting mad
And I’d wish I’d been raised without them
Like some other children had
But now I’m grown with kids of my own and I know just how they felt
You know it seems to me that what the world still needs
Is a Bible and a belt
‘Cause one had my daddy’s name on it
The other said King James
With love they taught us lessons
But we feared them both the same
One led us to heaven
And the other hurt like hell
But those were the days when kids were raised
With a Bible and a belt
A Bible and a belt