Thomas Rhett Snags 16th Number One With Uplifting ‘Be a Light’
A bright spot in the pandemic is on top of the charts.
Thomas Rhett has hit the top of the country charts for the 16th time of his career, doing so with one of the most uplifting songs to come out of the pandemic.
Released in March as the country began a sweeping COVID-19 shutdowns and millions lost their jobs, the all-star track featured megawatt guest appearances by Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin and Keith Urban. But what shined brightest was the track’s positive messaging, all about becoming the goodness we hope to see in the world.
“In a world full of hate, be a light / When you do somebody wrong, make it right / Don’t hide in the dark, you were born to shine / In a world full of hate, be a light,” goes the inspiring chorus.
“I’m completely blown away and humbled by the support of ‘Be a Light’ from the fans, country radio and the entire industry,” Rhett said in a press statement. “When we decided to release this song in March, it was the best way I knew how to share what was on my heart, and I’m feeling so hopeful and encouraged to see so many of you inspired to take action because of it in your own communities. Thank y’all for coming together like this!”
Since the song’s release Rhett has donated all proceeds from “Be a Light” to MusiCares’ COVID-19 relief efforts, and recently added another $100,000 on top with Big Machine Label Group President/CEO Scott Borchetta. The track topped the Mediabase/Country Airplay radio chart this week, and was just revealed as a Musical Event of The Year nominee at this year’s CMA Awards.
Meanwhile, Rhett is also up for four trophies at the upcoming ACM Awards, which air in just a few days. He’ll hope to take home Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year and Video of the Year when show airs in a first-ever virtual format from Nashville on September 16, and will also perform “Beer Can’t Fix” alongside Jon Pardi.
