The song "Jesus and Elvis" by Hayes Carll tells the story of a bar called the "Baptist Lounge" where painted portraits of Jesus and Elvis hang. The owner of the bar, Lola, built it in 1967 and her son went off to fight in a war on Christmas Eve, which he did not survive. This tragedy motivated Lola to create a gathering place where people can enjoy music and spirits, and where Jesus and Elvis can reside together. The song speaks to the power of music and the comfort that can be found in a familiar place. It also touches on themes of redemption and the idea that anyone can find solace in the bar, regardless of their beliefs or background. The lyrics suggest that, like Jesus and Elvis, the people who frequent the bar have transcended the boundaries of time and still maintain a powerful presence there. Overall, "Jesus and Elvis" is a poignant and hopeful anthem about finding peace amid tragedy and the resilience of the human spirit.
