About the Song
“Far Side Banks of Jordan” by Jimmy Fortune is a profoundly moving and spiritually rich performance that speaks to the eternal bond of love, the hope of reunion beyond death, and the deep peace that comes from faith. Originally written by Terry Smith and made widely known through Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, the song takes on a particularly poignant beauty when performed by Jimmy Fortune, whose crystal-clear tenor and heartfelt sincerity bring a new layer of emotional resonance to this classic gospel duet.
Jimmy Fortune, best known as a former member of The Statler Brothers, has long been admired for his ability to blend tenderness with vocal strength, and in “Far Side Banks of Jordan,” he delivers one of his most heartfelt renditions. Often performed as a duet—sometimes with Sonya Isaacs or another female vocalist—this version focuses on the promise of eternal life and the comfort of seeing loved ones again on heaven’s shores.
Lyrically, the song is told from the perspective of someone nearing the end of life, speaking tenderly to their partner: “I’ll wait for you by the river / And we’ll rest beside the far side banks of Jordan.” The message is simple, yet deeply profound—a reassurance that love does not end with death, and that faith bridges the divide between this world and the next. It’s a song of comfort, not sorrow; a song of reunion, not loss.
Jimmy’s voice, with its purity and emotional clarity, is perfectly suited to the song’s themes. He doesn’t over-sing or embellish—he simply delivers the message with humility, conviction, and grace. His tone carries both the sadness of impending separation and the joy of future reunion, creating an emotional balance that touches listeners of all ages.
The instrumentation is gentle and reverent—acoustic guitar, soft piano, light harmonies, and subtle gospel elements underscore the lyrical beauty without overwhelming it. The arrangement mirrors the song’s spiritual core: peaceful, reflective, and full of hope.
In the tradition of Appalachian gospel and country-rooted hymns, “Far Side Banks of Jordan” stands as one of the most beautiful expressions of Christian faith in song form. And Jimmy Fortune’s interpretation adds a personal, deeply felt dimension that has made this version a favorite at funerals, memorials, and moments of personal reflection.
In essence, Jimmy Fortune’s “Far Side Banks of Jordan” is not just a gospel song—it’s a spiritual embrace. It comforts the grieving, strengthens the faithful, and reminds us all that love and grace endure—even beyond the river.