The lyrics tell the story of a man confessing his sins to the Mormon leaders Brother Brigham and Brother Young, admitting to revealing secrets, doubting, committing adultery, and marrying a Black woman. Despite his sins, he expresses belief in their prophethood and asks to be sacrificed in the Great Salt Lake Basin as atonement.

Meaning of "Brother Brigham, Brother Young" by Corb Lund

The lyrics of "Brother Brigham, Brother Young" delve into themes of faith, sin, confession, and atonement within the context of Mormonism. The narrator confesses to a series of grave sins, acknowledging his transgressions against the teachings of the religion. Despite this, he emphasizes his belief in the prophetic status of Brother Brigham and Brother Young, suggesting blind faith in divine leadership. The imagery of sacrificing oneself in the Great Salt Lake Basin symbolizes a desire for ultimate forgiveness and purification through a drastic act of atonement. This reflects the deep-seated guilt and yearning for redemption that can accompany religious devotion, as well as the complex interplay between sin, faith, and salvation.