Steven Curtis Chapman’s New Song Honors Moms Who Quietly Change the World

Grammy winner Steven Curtis Chapman pays tribute to the devoted love of his 83-year-old mother in his heartfelt new song “Speed of Love.” The single celebrates the everyday heroism, humble acts of service, and the extraordinary pace of a mother’s care.

Chapman believes that mothers possess a special gift that they offer to the world. He describes them as being constantly busy yet fully engaged, always on the move while still showing kindness, love, and empathy towards those around them. In a display of admiration for his own mother, Judy Chapman, he penned the song “Speed of Love.” A lyric video featuring photos of Chapman and his mother, as well as submissions from fans showcasing other moms, was released on May 1.

Released just in time for Mother’s Day, Chapman emphasizes that the song is a heartfelt tribute suitable for any time of the year. The 83-year-old Judy Chapman is described by her son as a lovely and kind lady.

The song highlights his mother’s life filled with love, including her service at a local kitchen, her gentle presence at a flower shop, and her warm interactions with neighbors. It starts with the lyrics, “She gets up at 6 in the morning and drives to the kitchen, where the hungry hearts … gather; she’ll fill your plate and say a kind word, and look you in the eye and make you believe you … matter; and all the while the world goes rushing by, but she just smiles and goes on living life; at the speed … of love.”

Chapman reflects on the concept of the speed of love, explaining that it is not about being slow and calm but rather about living deliberately and recognizing the worth of each individual. The song celebrates humble acts of service that quietly impact the world. Its closing lines affirm, “You’re never gonna read about her in the headlines; safe to say the world will never know her name; but I believe we’re gonna find when we meet at the finish line; just how much the world was changed; by the ones who chose to run this race; at the speed … of love.”

Describing it as a “story song,” Chapman hopes that his mother’s life serves as an inspiration to listeners. He shares how his mother, who bravely battled cancer 25 years ago and recently faced a recurrence, continues to live with resilience and joy, finding fulfillment in serving others and cherishing simple moments of connection with friends.

Chapman emphasizes the importance of living intentionally and at a meaningful pace, drawing from his mother’s example. He hopes that the message of the song resonates with audiences and encourages them to embrace the speed of love in their own lives.