Precious Lord

Shakuhachi: Robert A. Jonas
Voice: Robert Honeysucker

Lyrics: Thomas A. Dorsey
Music: Adapted by Thomas Dorsey from the tune Maitland, by George N. Allen (1812-1877)

Arrangement: Jonas & Honeysucker

The first independent publisher of black Gospel music, Thomas A. Dorsey (1899-1993) penned more than a thousand gospel hymns over the course of his lifetime. This, his most famous song, came to him in 1932, while grieving the death in childbirth of his first wife.

Precious Lord was a favorite of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who often invited gospel legend Mahalia Jackson to sing it at civil rights rallies to inspire the crowds. On April 9th, 1968, at Dr. King's own request, Mahalia Jackson sang Precious Lord at his funeral.

Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I’m weak, I’m lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When my way grows drear precious Lord linger near
When my life is almost gone
Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

When the darkness appears and the night draws near
And the day is past and gone
At the river I stand
Guide my feet, hold my hand
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I’m weak, Lord I’m worn
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home

(On Many Paths, One Joy. Recorded at Porter Square Recording, Somerville, MA, 2005.)

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