Sky — Spirit In The

: Greenbaum reportedly wrote the lyrics in just 15 minutes.

: The title "Spirit in the Sky" came from a card he saw depicting Native Americans looking toward a "spirit in the sky". Spirit In The Sky

Greenbaum, raised in a nearly Orthodox Jewish family, was watching a television show featuring country singer . During the show, Wagoner performed a religious song about a miner who found his way back to God. Greenbaum, who had no background in gospel music, felt he could create something similar and decided to write his own "religious" song. Other eclectic influences included: : Greenbaum reportedly wrote the lyrics in just 15 minutes

Though Greenbaum is often labeled a "one-hit wonder," the song remains a "forever song". It has been covered by numerous artists, including and Gareth Gates , and is a staple in movies like Guardians of the Galaxy and Apollo 13 . Today, it is frequently used as an uplifting anthem at celebrations of life and funerals. During the show, Wagoner performed a religious song

: The theme of being "buried with your shoes on"—a common trope in Westerns—found its way into his thoughts during the writing process. The Writing & Recording