Introduction
“See You There” is a poignant track by Joey Feek, one half of the acclaimed country duo Joey+Rory. The song holds deep personal significance, as it serves as a tribute to Joey’s late brother, Justin Martin, who tragically passed away in a car accident at the age of seventeen in July 1994. Joey and her mother were among the first to arrive at the accident scene, an experience that profoundly impacted her and her family.
Originally recorded in 2005, “See You There” was part of Joey’s solo album titled If Not For You. This album, produced by her husband Rory Feek and Bill McDermott, was initially released independently and sold at the duo’s shows and through their website. It wasn’t until April 7, 2017, that the album received a wider release through Gaither Music Group/Farmhouse Recordings, allowing a broader audience to connect with Joey’s heartfelt compositions.
The lyrics of “See You There” vividly recount the harrowing experience of losing Justin, reflecting the family’s grief and their enduring hope of reunion. Lines like “See you there, see you there. There were broken glass and blue lights everywhere” encapsulate the tragic scene, while the recurring sentiment of “We held our breath and said a prayer” underscores their reliance on faith during such a devastating time.
Joey Feek’s untimely passing in March 2016 after a courageous battle with cervical cancer added another layer of depth to the song’s message. Her husband, Rory Feek, shared that Joey’s greatest dream was realized as she joined her beloved brother Justin in heaven, free from pain and suffering.
“See You There” stands as a testament to Joey Feek’s ability to channel personal tragedy into a song that resonates with listeners, offering solace and a sense of shared experience to those who have faced similar losses.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
You waited all Summer
For that night to come around
And mom was in the kitchen and I was laying down
We said we’d meet up later at the county fair
As you closed the door you hollered see you there
[Chorus 1]
See you there
See you there
There was broken glass and blue lights everywhere
You were lying by your Jeep
We held our breathe and said a prayer
We could hardly bare to see you there
[Verse 2]
No one had to tell us that you were hurt real bad
To Life Flight you to Indy was the only chance you had
Mama climbed in with you, she knew I was scared
As she closed the door, she hollered see you there
[Chorus 2]
See you there
See you there
There were lines and tubes and doctors everywhere
Daddy stayed up all night long
Right beside you in the chair
He could hardly bare to see you there