The hauntingly beautiful song “Mr. Tanner” by Harry Chapin always brings tears to my eyes. It tells the story of a talented launderer and baritone whose spirit is crushed by critical rejection. But this summer, I experienced a different kind of tearful joy – the kind that comes from witnessing true artistry and unwavering faith.
I had the privilege of seeing The Hillbilly Thomists perform live for the first time. This sensational bluegrass band, named after Flannery O’Connor’s description of her own creative worldview, is made up entirely of friars from the Order of Preachers. For most of the year, these clerics live their lives as chaplains, vicars, and even a bestselling author on theology. But for two weeks each year, they embark on a musical tour, sharing their love of God and their unique blend of bluegrass with the world.
Like the fictional Mr. Tanner, these lyrical Dominicans found each other on their path to priesthood. They sing, as Cat Stevens said, because they “can’t keep it in.” Bluegrass is the soundtrack to their journey of faith, and their music resonates with a raw, honest passion.
The Hillbilly Thomists’ journey to success is particularly inspiring. Their first album, released in 2017, reached #3 on Billboard’s Bluegrass Albums chart, and their fourth album, “Marigold,” debuted at #2 this summer. Their music is a beautiful blend of complexity and grace, with lyrics rich in poetry and Scripture. But it’s their live performances that truly capture the essence of their message: a love for God, for each other, and for music that is both joyful and deeply moving.
What sets The Hillbilly Thomists apart is their unwavering commitment to their faith. They chose to serve God as Dominican priests first and foremost, embracing their musical talents as a gift to share with the world. They didn’t fall into the trap of choosing between music and ministry; they found a way to integrate both.
This approach aligns with the wisdom of C.S. Lewis, who wrote, “put first things first and we get second things thrown in; put second things first and we lose both first and second things.” The Hillbilly Thomists embody this principle. By putting God first, they have achieved both spiritual and artistic fulfillment.
Their story is a powerful reminder that when we seek the kingdom of God first, everything else will fall into place. Their music is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the joy that comes from living a life dedicated to something greater than ourselves. Like the fictional Mr. Tanner, they found their voice, their purpose, and their wholeness by putting first things first. It’s a lesson we can all learn from, a message that resonates in every note they play and every heart they touch.
