Jesus, Take a Hold

Merle Haggard

About Jesus, Take a Hold

"Jesus, Take a Hold" is a song written and performed by American country music artist Merle Haggard and The Strangers. It was released in June 1970 as the first single from the album Hag. "Jesus, Take a Hold" peaked at number three on the U. S. Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and peaked at number seven on the Bubbling Under Hot 100. It reached three on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks.


Year:
2006
2:17
90 
#3

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Like the ancient Roman empire, this world is doomed to fall
And it's much too big a thing for mortal man
Just take a look around and see the writing on the wall
Somehow we've got to find a helping hand

This world has never been in the awful shape it's in
And people scorn the things our leaders do
It's time a prayer was spoken from the heart of every man
Jesus, take a hold and lead us through

The mighty roar of gunfire is now a local sound
And our city streets are filled with angry men
Law's now a mockery throughout our troubled land
And destruction seems to be the current trend

This world has never been in the awful shape it's in
And our leaders seem in doubt, what to do
It's time a prayer was spoken from the heart of every man
Jesus, take a hold and lead us through
Jesus, take a hold and lead us through

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Merle Haggard

Merle Ronald Haggard (born April 6, 1937) is an American country music song writer, singer, guitarist, fiddler and instrumentalist. Along with Buck Owens, Haggard and his band The Strangers helped create the Bakersfield sound, which is characterized by the unique twang of Fender Telecaster and the unique mix with the traditional country steel guitar sound, new vocal harmony styles in which the words are minimal, and a rough edge not heard on the more polished Nashville Sound recordings of the same era. more »

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Written by: HAGGARD

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


21 facts about this song

Song Origin
"Jesus, Take a Hold" is a country gospel song performed by Merle Haggard. The song was composed by renowned country artist Merle Haggard himself.
Album Information
The song is included in Merle Haggard's 11th studio album 'The Fightin' Side of Me’ which was released in 1970.
Chart Position
"Jesus, Take a Hold" climbed up the charts to reach the #3 position on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1970.
Song Theme
The song outlines religious themes, particularly focusing on the call for divine assistance and guidance in times of change, uncertainty, and difficulty.
Music Style
Recognizing Merle Haggard's country music roots, "Jesus, Take a Hold" incorporates elements of gospel music, matching clean-cut vocal delivery with emotional sincerity.
Legacy
Over the years, the song has become one of Merle Haggard's iconic numbers, adding to his legacy as a pioneering artist in the country and gospel music genres.
Cover Versions
Other prominent artists like Connie Smith and Loretta Lynn have also covered "Jesus, Take a Hold," showcasing the song's timeless relevance and appeal.
Inspirations
As an artist, Haggard often drew inspiration from his personal experiences and feelings, and "Jesus, Take a Hold" reflects his own spiritual beliefs and understandings.
Relevance
Despite being five decades old, the song continues to be relevant and relatable for many listeners, underlying its timeless appeal.
Significance
Haggard's performance of "Jesus, Take the Hold" is considered significant as it displays his versatility as an artist, his ability to blend different genres, and his sincere articulation of a deeply personal, religious theme.
Song's Background
"Jesus, Take a Hold" is country music song performed by American singer-songwriter Merle Haggard.
Release Date
This track was released in October 1970 as part of his album "The Fightin' Side of Me."
Chart Performance
This song enjoyed significant success, reaching no. 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and no. 100 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart.
Song's Composition
Haggard wrote this song himself, showcasing his signature blend of country and gospel music.
Lyrics Meaning
The lyrics of "Jesus, Take a Hold" reflect Haggard's religious faith, expressing a plea for divine guidance in difficult times.
The Album
The song is from the album "The Fightin' Side of Me", which is one of Haggard's most iconic albums. The album helped to solidify his status as one of the leading figures in the Bakersfield sound.
The Song Message
The song was among many others released during that time expressing a general dissatisfaction with the state of the world and a return to the principles of faith.
Unique Style
This song perfectly encapsulates Haggard's style of tasking traditional country sounds and infusing them with a modern relevance and rawness that resonated with fans.
Vocal Execution
Haggard's delivery of the song has been praised for its emotional intensity and sincerity.
Legacy
Despite its release over half a century ago, "Jesus, Take a Hold" remains one of Merle Haggard's most enduring and popular songs.
Personal Impact
The song reflects Haggard's own personal journey with faith and spirituality, presenting his candid feelings and emotions.

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