George Birge’s “It Won’t Be Long” may have become a fan favorite, but the song also serves as a personal reminder for the country star to appreciate the life he already has.
During his Backstage Country co-hosting stint with Elaina Smith, Birge explained that he wrote the song as a reminder not to take his family, friends, and career for granted. Instead of constantly chasing whatever comes next, the song encourages listeners to pause and recognize the good things already surrounding them.
Fans Turned Lyrics Into Life Mantras
The song took on an even bigger meaning when fans began using its message in their own lives.
“I have so many fans that have taken this song and put it into their own lives. From first dances at weddings to really soaking in moments with loved ones, to remembering people that they've lost, I think it just speaks to life on a bigger level,” he explained. “And I can't tell you how many arm tattoos ‘take the risk’ or ‘it won't be long’ on a shoulder or something. To see people, like, putting the words on their skin and having that be their life mantra, it gives me chills to even think about. It's so special.”
He added, “As artists, that's all we want to do is connect with fans on that level. Everything else is auxiliary. If you can make that intimate one-on-one connection with fans, that's where the magic is, and that's what this song has given me a chance to do, which is so special.”
The Message Still Hits Birge Himself
Even after performing the song repeatedly, Birge said it can still give him a lump in his throat. “We all are hardwired to want what's next or want what's bigger or dream about how things could be better in the future,” he said. “But if you take a breath and you pause and you look around, sometimes it's a lot easier to be grateful when you take a minute to try to be.”
He added, “And so that's what this song is for me. And every now and then, I'll be on stage and kind of slow down and really let that lyric sink in, and it feels pretty big.”
Listen to George Birge’s “It Won’t Be Long.”
George Birge - It Won't Be Long (Official Video)
