John Illsley - When God Made Time Apr 2026

"When God Made Time" is a soulful, mid-tempo track by , best known as the founding bassist of Dire Straits . Released on June 15, 2014, the song serves as a standout piece from his solo album, Testing the Water . Musical Style and Themes

The song was a key single for the album Testing the Water , which marked Illsley's return to a more classic rock sound after his 2010 collaboration with Greg Pearle. John Illsley - When God Made Time

The track carries the hallmark of the "Straits" sound—relaxed, melodic, and driven by a steady rhythmic pulse. Lyrically, it explores the vastness of human experience and the universal nature of connection: "When God Made Time" is a soulful, mid-tempo

The central refrain, "Now when God made time, he made plenty of it," suggests a philosophical, unhurried outlook on life. The track carries the hallmark of the "Straits"

The song opens with references to Adam and the Garden of Eden, grounding its modern observations in timeless mythology. Context and Release

The track is a staple of his live sets, often featured on live recordings like Live in London where it showcases his signature laid-back vocal style. When God Made Time - John Illsley: Song Lyrics ... - Shazam

Illsley lists various nations—from China and India to Russia and France—to emphasize that the need for love and harmony transcends borders.