“Holy” by Justin Bieber (ft. Chance the Rapper)

“Holy” has been described as being akin to a gospel song. And whereas there is definitely a Christian undertone, as well as the heavy usage of associated terminology, going that far would be a stretch. What it is actually centered on is the singer’s romantic relationship with the addressee. Even more specifically, it would appear that the Biebs is espousing the idea of marriage or at least getting married to this particular individual.  This is despite being advised by “wise men” not to ‘rush in(to)’ it. And it is very possible that he is alluding to his marriage to Hailey Bieber, since they were both in their early 20s when they jumped the broom. And overall, the singer presents himself as being overly-excited in terms of tying the knot with the addressee.

Meanwhile it is Chance the Rapper, during his verse, whom it can be said takes more a general-religious slant. He clearly idealizes the notion of having a close relationship with God. And in addition to putting such a view forth, he also goes along with the overarching storyline by rapping as if he is addressing his fiancée.

Facts about “Holy”

Justin Bieber described Chance the Rapper as “a brother”, and their collaboration history would support that notion. They had collaborated on four songs prior to “Holy”, beginning with the Biebs’ 2013 track Confident as well as DJ Khaled’s 2018 banger “No Brainer“.

Def Jam Records officially released Holy on 18 September 2020.  Shortly after its issuance Justin and Chance pledged $250,000 in charity to “those affected by these hard times”.  They are doing so in collaboration with Cash App, and fans apply to receive the funds by sharing their struggles on social media via the hashtag #JBChanceHoly.

Both of the vocalists also co-wrote this song along with its producers. And the producers in question are:

• Mr. Franks
• TBHits
• Jordan Odegard
• Jon Bellion

The music video (or short film) to Holy features an actress named Ryan Destiny (portraying Bieber’s romantic interest) and had Colin Tilley as its director.

This was a top-10 hit in many a country, including the following:

• UK
• Australia
• Netherlands
• Scotland
• Norway