Lee Ann Womack was born on August 19, 1966, in Jacksonville, Texas. She studied music at Belmont University in Nashville. Her dad was a radio DJ, which helped shape her deep love for country music.
She released her first album in 1997, featuring the hit The Fool. Her biggest success came in 2000 with I Hope You Dance, which topped country charts and even crossed over to pop radio stations.
Womack has won a Grammy Award, Country Music Association Award, and Academy of Country Music honors. Known for blending traditional country with modern styles, she continues to tour and record music with heartfelt, emotional lyrics.
About the Song
I Hope You Dance is about cherishing life fully and courageously. The song encourages listeners to take chances, stay hopeful, and appreciate every moment.
It wishes for people to be brave, kind, and open to new experiences, even when life is hard. Overall, it’s a message of hope, encouragement, and living with a joyful heart.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | May 3, 2000 |
| Album | Greatest Hits (2004) |
| Writers | Tia Sillers & Mark D. Sanders |
| Producers | Mark Wright |
I Hope You Dance Lyrics
Verse 1
I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat, but always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty-handed
Verse 2
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean
Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens
Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
Chorus
I hope you dance
I hope you dance
Verse 3
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Livin’ might mean takin’ chances, but they’re worth takin’
Lovin’ might be a mistake, but it’s worth makin’
Verse 4
Don’t let some hellbent heart leave you bitter
When you come close to sellin’ out, reconsider
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
Chorus
I hope you dance (Time is a wheel in constant motion always)
I hope you dance (Rolling us along)
I hope you dance (Tell me, who wants to look back on their years and wonder)
I hope you dance (Where those years have gone?)
Bridge
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean
Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens
Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
Chorus
Dance
I hope you dance
I hope you dance (Time is a wheel in constant motion always)
I hope you dance (Rolling us along)
I hope you dance (Tell me, who wants to look back on their years and wonder)
I hope you dance (Where those years have gone?)
Outro
Tell me, who wants to look back on their years and wonder
Where those years have gone?
Similar Songs Like I Hope You Dance
Looking for more songs that touch your heart and lift your spirits? Here are some songs that bring warmth and comfort, each in its own special way.
- A Little Past Little Rock: Driving beat and twangy guitar meet lyrics about missing home. It’s like a long car ride where you smile but still wish you were back.
- I May Hate Myself in the Morning: This song whispers about loving someone even when it hurts. It’s quiet, honest, and a little sad.
- Solitary Thinkin’: Upbeat and light, it’s about needing time alone. The happy tune and friendly words make you want to sing along, not feel lonely.
- Mendocino County Line: Gentle voices harmonize in a relaxed, soothing melody. Imagine sitting on a porch at sunset, sharing quiet moments as the world slows down and peace settles all around you.
Awards for The Song
| Year | Awarding Body | Award Category |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Country Music Association (CMA) | Single of the Year |
| 2001 | Grammy Awards | Best Country Song |
| 2001 | Academy of Country Music (ACM) | Song of the Year |
| 2001 | Academy of Country Music (ACM) | Single Record of the Year |
| 2001 | Billboard Music Awards | Adult Contemporary Single of the Year |
| 2001 | BMI Country Awards | Song of the Year |
| 2001 | Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) | Song of the Year |
Similar Artists Like Lee Ann Womack
These singers bring a warm, timeless sound, where steel guitars meet soulful stories, and every note feels like it’s straight from the heart.
- Patty Loveless
Genre: Country, Bluegrass
Top Albums: When Fallen Angels Fly (1994), Mountain Soul (2001) - Trisha Yearwood
Genre: Country, Country Pop
Top Albums: Hearts in Armor (1992), Songbook: A Collection of Hits (1997) - Sara Evans
Genre: Country, Country Pop
Top Albums: Born to Fly (2000), Restless (2003) - Martina McBride
Genre: Country, Adult Contemporary
Top Albums: Evolution (1997), Emotion (1999)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Group Provided Background Vocals?
Sons of the Desert sang the harmonies on the track.
Are there Any Live Performances of I Hope You Dance?
Yes, Lee Ann has performed it live many times. You can find live versions on YouTube, including at award shows and special TV appearances.
Has I Hope You Dance Been Covered by Other Artists?
Yes, many artists have covered it. Notable versions include those by Ronan Keating and Gladys Knight, each bringing their own style to the song.
