When Bart Millard wrote and released the song “I Can Only Imagine” with his band MercyMe, he likely had no idea what far reach and impact the song would have.
Recently, the song was the inspiration for the movie of the same name. The film tells the true story of Millard’s relationship with his father and how he was inspired to write the song.
The song reached double platinum--the only Christian song to ever do so--and the film exceeded expectations at the box office. “We knew that it was going to do well but we never expected a $17 million opening,” said Howard Cohen of Roadside Attractions-Lionsgate which produced the film.
But the song’s influence did not stop there. Relevant Magazine reports that Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin recently signed HB 3473 into law, making “I Can Only Imagine” the “official inspirational state song.” The film was also filmed in the Sooner state.
Oklahoma Representative Randy McDaniel explained the inspiration for the bill:
“When I saw the movie, I was moved by the powerful message of hope and forgiveness. Seeing the film inspired me to take action to give this extraordinary song official state recognition and a permanent home in Oklahoma’s musical landscape.”
Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
Publication date: April 24, 2018
