Overall, there have been 29 single releases throughout the years with 26 of them charting in the top 20 or better. Eight of those 26 have reached the coveted No.1 spot on the national country charts.
His first release, “Back Side of thirty” went nowhere fast. Three more singles also met with a minimum success, although they all charted. But in March of 1978, the label released “Rose Colored Glasses,” a song Conlee wrote, which became a huge hit as well as his signature song. In January of 1979, the label re-released “Back Side of Thirty” which went on to become a No. 1 record, and the hits continued to roll. The John Conlee hit list includes songs such as “Lady Lay Down,” “Before My Time,” “Friday Night Blues,” “Miss Emily’s Picture,” “Busted,” “I Don’t Remember Loving You,” “Common Man,” “I’m Only In It For The Love,” “In My Eyes,” “As Long As I’m Rocking With You,” “Years After You,” “Domestic Life,” “Mama’s Rockin Chair,” “Hit the Ground Runnin,” and “Fellow Travelers.” All of Conlee’s hits have that unmistakable common thread – that unique voice. Conlee has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1981.
Take My Hand
John Conlee Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
When my way grows drear precious Lord linger near
Hear my cry, hear my call
Hold my hand lest I fall
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
When the darkness appears and the night draws near
And the day is past and gone
At the river I stand
Guide my feet, hold my hand
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm lone
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on to the light
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
The lyrics of John Conlee’s song Take My Hand are a plea for help, for divine assistance in navigating life’s trials and tribulations. The use of the phrase “precious Lord” is significant because it recognizes the supreme power of God, and the trust and faith the singer has in that power. The first stanza describes a person who is tired, weak, and alone, in need of guidance and support. The second stanza highlights the struggle of a person nearing the end of their physical or emotional strength, but still hoping for relief. The final stanza speaks to the end of life, and the singer’s request for help crossing over to the other side, into the unknown.
The song’s message of relying on faith and strength in difficult times has resonated with audiences since its release in 1978. It has been covered by many artists in various genres and is often played at funerals and other somber occasions. The lyrics are simple but powerful, and convey a deep sense of trust and surrender.
Line by Line Meaning
Precious Lord, take my hand
Asking God to guide and lead them on their journey.
Lead me on, let me stand
Requesting direction and stability through the difficulties of life.
I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm lone
Admitting to their vulnerabilities and shortcomings.
Through the storm, through the night
Referring to the hardships and darkness of life.
Lead me on to the light
Looking for guidance towards something better and brighter.
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
A plea for God's protection and guidance to bring them to their ultimate destination.
When my way grows drear precious Lord linger near
Asking God to stay close during moments of sadness and despair.
When my light is almost gone
Referring to losing hope and feeling lost.
Hear my cry, hear my call
Seeking God's attention and help during difficult times.
Hold my hand lest I fall
Asking for support and guidance to prevent them from losing their way.
When the darkness appears and the night draws near
Referring to the approaching hardships and uncertainties.
And the day is past and gone
Reflecting on the end of the day, but looking towards the future.
At the river I stand
Represents approaching the end of the journey and the beginning of a new one.
Guide my feet, hold my hand
Requesting guidance and support from God during this new phase.
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
Repeating the initial plea for God's guidance and protection towards their ultimate destination.
Precious Lord, take my hand
The repeated plea for God's guidance and protection.
Lead me on, let me stand
Reiterating the request for direction and stability.
I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm lone
Acknowledging their human limitations and the struggles they face.
Through the storm, through the night
Repeating the idea of facing difficult times.
Lead me on to the light
Repeating the request for guidance towards something better and brighter.
Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home
A final plea for God's protection and guidance towards their ultimate destination.
Contributed by Lila P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.