Trace Adkins Stars In A New Movie About Christian Music's Most Inspiring Song

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Trace Adkins Stars In A New Movie About Christian Music's Most Inspiring Song

Trace Adkins - Lionsgate / Roadside Attractions

Sometimes it can seem like an entertainer is everywhere at once all of a sudden, and this week has been a pretty busy one for Trace Adkins.

He's already appearing as a mentor on The Voice, where he recorded some hilarious promos with judge Blake Shelton.

But the country singer (and sometimes actor) is also appearing in the new movie I Can Only Imagine, inspired by the hit song of the same name.

And the uplifting story seems like a perfect fit for the musician.

I Can Only Imagine

J. Michael Finley stars in 'I Can Only Imagine.'Lionsgate / Roadside Attractions

The new film is inspired by MercyMe's "I Can Only Imagine," the best-selling Christian single ever.

The song became a surprising crossover hit when it was released in 2001, getting a lot of play on non-Christian radio stations.

"It was No. 1 on [the local Dallas] station for, like, six months," remembers the band's lead singer Bart Millard.

"Up there with 50 Cent's In Da Club and some J.Lo song."

The track went on to sell 2.5 million copies, becoming the first ever double platinum Christian record.

But the story behind the record, which the movie will explore, is just as inspiring as the song itself.

The Movie

I Can Only Imagine tells the life story of MercyMe's singer Bart Millard (played by Broadway singer J. Michael Finley) and his troubled relationship with his father.

Dennis Quaid plays Millard's abusive father, who has a spiritual awakening after being diagnosed with cancer.

His father's death inspired Millard to write "I Can Only Imagine," a hopeful song about what it would be like to meet God in heaven.

Adkins plays the band's manager.Lionsgate / Roadside Attractions

Adkins, who plays MercyMe's manager, seems like a perfect fit for the movie with a strong religious theme.

Finding Hope

"The first thing I ever did behind a microphone was singing bass in a gospel quartet," Adkins remembered about his early career.

"At the same time, I was playing guitar and singing in honky-tonks."

The singer, who has spoken openly about addiction and his faith throughout his career, can definitely relate to the song's message.

"You're not alone if you're going through it," he said about struggling to do the right thing. "You're not alone in that struggle."

Do you remember this classic song? And will you be watching the new movie?

[H/T: USA Today]

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