Based on a melody from the 1844 hymn entitled "Maitland" by American composer George N. Allen, originally music for the text "Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone?", the Rev. Thomas A. Dorsey used the tune for this song written in response to his inconsolable bereavement at the death of his wife during childbirth in 1932. It was the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s favorite song and his last request just before being shot on April 4, 1968, asking musician Ben Branch, scheduled to perform the number at the evening's meeting, to "Play it real pretty". Covered by everyone from Faith Hill to Chaka Khan (even Elvis), this 1941 version is from uncle mikey's favorite, Sister Rosetta Tharpe. When my way grows weary 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, and lead me on.
