The traditional African American spiritual, often titled “Give Me Jesus,” lacks a definitively attributed author. Like many spirituals, it emerged from the collective experiences of enslaved people in the United States, passed down orally and evolving over time. Its anonymity reflects the communal nature of its creation and preservation within a culture denied literacy and individual ownership.
This powerful song served as a source of solace and hope amidst unimaginable hardship. Expressing a deep longing for spiritual liberation and divine comfort, it offered a refuge from the brutal realities of slavery. The melody’s plaintive beauty and the lyrics’ heartfelt simplicity resonated deeply within the enslaved community, solidifying its enduring presence in African American religious and musical traditions. Its continued performance and adaptation by diverse artists underscore its timeless message of faith and resilience.