In September 1932, Thomas A. Dorsey wrote “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” to express the profound grief he felt over the loss of his wife Nettie and day-old son Thomas Jr. the previous month.
Dorsey’s gospel song was embraced from the first time he introduced it at Chicago’s Ebenezer Baptist Church. Translated into as many as 40 different languages, it has been recorded by the likes of Mahalia Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
Simply put, “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” is one of the most beloved gospel songs of all time.
The Gospel Memories radio program honored the song’s 80th anniversary Saturday, September 15, with an hour-long tribute that showcased famous recordings of the song and the story behind its creation.
Listen to the program here: Take My Hand, Precious Lord.
Written by : Bob Marovich
Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.
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