Take my Hand Precious Lord

This is a gospel-style hymn which is particularly suitable for funerals.

It was written by Black American musician, composer, and Baptist choir director and Christian evangelist, Thomas A. Dorsey (1899–1993), following the death of his wife and child. It is sometimes called "Precious Lord Take my Hand".

As Dorsey did not die until 1993, the lyrics are most probably still copyright in many countries. However their status in the USA is unclear: the first known recording was in 1937, and the text was written sometime after August 1932.  So it may still copyright laws if it was registered and renewed - but there is no evidence of this having happened.

With irregular meter, it is set to an air composed by Dorsey, which is based on the hymn-tune MAITLAND by American composer George N. Allen (1812–1877):   This tune was used for the hymn "Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone " which influenced Dorsey.



Downloads

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Examples

Singer with guitar - simple chords:


Choir with piano:


Country singer, words on-screen, professional recording:


Professional choir with orchestra:


Singer with military band at a remembrance service:


Trio with keyboard, professional recording:


Choir with organ:


Instrumental - organ:


Instrumental - steel guitar:


Lyrics:

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

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