chart. Under the chart rules at the time, which required songs to have a physical single release, "I'll Be" was initially ineligible for the Billboard Hot 100, but on September 8, 1998, a "very limited pressing" of the song was issued, making it then eligible; it debuted at number seven on the Hot 100 on the issue dated September 26, 1998, and ultimately peaked at number five the following week. While it was only McCain's second single to chart, it became his first and only top-10 hit and his biggest hit. Track listings 7-inch vinyl and CD single "I'll Be" – 4:25 "Grind Me in the Gears" – 4:19 Digital download "I'll Be" (LP version) – 4:26 "I'll Be" (acoustic version) – 4:37 "I'll Be" (video) – 4:07 Charts Weekly charts Year-end charts Release history Kian Egan version In 2014, "I'll Be" was covered by Irish musician Kian Egan. The song was included on his debut album, and was released as a single on May 12, 2014, through Rhino Records. Background and production In an interview with Digital Spy, Egan said "I chose 'I'll Be' for my second single, as I've always absolutely loved this song. This song means a lot to me and being able to record it was an honour. I'm incredibly excited to be able to perform this for all my fans." Music video The footage was shot in Egan's hometown of Sligo, in County Sligo, and the singer can be seen strumming a guitar while wandering along the deserted beach. In the visual, Egan also throws pebbles out to sea before meeting up with friends around a campfire. Artwork The single cover of the song shows Egan sitting on a plush red sofa and holding a white guitar. Track listings Promotional CD single "I'll Be" (radio mix) – 3:09 Promotional CD single "I'll Be" (radio mix) "I Run to You" (featuring Jodi Albert) In popular culture At the height of the song's popularity back in 1998, it was featured during a pivotal moment in the first-season finale episode titled "Decisions" on the WB series Dawson's Creek. In the episode of The Office "Here Comes Treble", the song is covered by Andy Bernard's a cappella group. In the 2022 movie, Shotgun Wedding, the song is sung by the cast during the climax of the film. References 1997 songs 1998 singles 2014 singles Edwin McCain songs Lava Records