THE GOSPEL IN SONG — “SWEET CHERRY WINE”

Tommy James and the Shondells—now there is a group that almost defies explanation.

In the landscape of popular music history, they are endlessly creative, endlessly catchy, yet somehow always underappreciated. From “Crimson and Clover” to “I Think We’re Alone Now,” their songs capture the hearts of listeners with melodies that linger and lyrics that surprise.

And Tommy James himself—what a voice, what a mind for songwriting! To call him underrated is an understatement; he has the gift of combining joy, reflection, and emotion in ways that few popular artists ever have.

One of their most stirring songs, “Sweet Cherry Wine,” was released in 1969, a year when the world was in upheaval. The song’s vibrant melody and hypnotic rhythm draw you in, but there is a depth many might not realize at first listen.

Tommy James, a devout believer, has said that the song is about the blood of Christ—a truth that transforms the song from a piece of pop history into a devotional treasure. The chorus, the repetition, the heartfelt delivery—they all become a celebration of the sacrifice that brings us life.

Indeed, the blood of Christ is the ultimate “sweet cherry wine.” It is the life poured out for us, the cleansing that washes us free, the gift that restores the soul. Just as the song invites the listener to savor the imagery and energy, so too Christ invites us to come and drink deeply of His grace (Revelation 1:5; 1 John 1:7).

It is not a distant, abstract promise; it is a reality we taste in faith, a delight for the soul, and a sustaining power through every trial and every dark night.

So let us listen, not only with ears, but with hearts attuned to His Spirit. Sweet cherry wine—how fitting that a song meant to move the world also points us to the Savior, whose blood redeems and whose love endures.

Let us come to Him, drink, and be refreshed. There is no greater melody, no sweeter tune, than the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of Your blood, for the life it gives, and the grace it pours into my soul. Let me drink deeply of Your love, and carry the sweetness of Your salvation wherever I go. Amen.

BDD