Gospel Song – I Want Jesus to Walk with Me
Gospel Song – I want Jesus to Walk with Me.
This poignant African American spiritual is a classic gospel song that has been covered by countless musicians. Since it is anonymous, the origins of the song are very unclear. It certainly is in the spiritual tradition, in that it combines being a lament as well as a prayer request and a plea from the heart. Depending on the interpretation of the vocalist, it could be filled with pathos or with hopefulness. Many musicologists say that this song is one of the many “sorrow songs,” and is meant to be sung individually, requesting Jesus for His companionship and presence on a difficulty journey. This could also be called a “journey song,” because it was encouraging for the suffering African Americans to see life as a pilgrim’s journey, that heaven is ahead, that once this life is over they will be going to a better place. The official name for this particular tune is the Sojourner Truth” tune, named after the famed ex-slave who helped countless slaves escape into freedom.
Noah Stewart – I Want Jesus To Walk With Me – Moses Hogan – YouTube
Like most spirituals, the singers often added their own lyrics to make it even more personal. Many singers improvise lyrics that are meaningful to them. Others have added such verses as…
“When I’m grieving, come walk with me…
“When friends forsake me, come walk with me…
“In my trials, Lord, come walk with me…”
I Want Jesus To Walk With Me – YouTube
This is such a beautiful rendition of the song, that I couldn’t in good conscience leave it off: