The multi-award-winning (including 4 Grammys) group, and Gospel Music Association's hall of fame inductees, began in 1964. Jake Hess of the Statesmen Quartet decided to hand-pick the best singers he could find to put together what he would call a "super group" that would be known as The Imperials: Hess (lead), Armond Morales (bass from the Weatherford Quartet), former Oak Ridge Boys baritone Gary McSpadden, the Speer Family's Sherrill Nielsen (tenor), and Henry Slaughter (the Weatherford Quartet) at piano. Until Hess was forced to retire because of health reasons, the group was usually called Jake Hess and The Imperials.
Over the years, there have been many changes of members (and styles). They hit their peak of popularity in the late '70s and early '80s with Morales, Jim Murray (tenor), David Will (baritone), and Russ Taff.
The current lineup includes: Jason Morales, Perry Jones, Ian Owens and Scott Allen.
Finish What You Started
The Imperials Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
figure me out blaming everybody but me.
Used to love to listen people talking about instant liberty.
I just kept on tryn' but nothing made a change.
Seems like all their answers to what I wanted to be never applied to
me but when I came to Jesus tired of that
kind of life I asked him just what to do.
He said we're starting over no more
This is the beginning of what I want to be.
He's changing me completely,
every day I can se it's Jesus workin' in me
Finish what you started in me Lord, I like what I see
But I love, I love what you're doin' in me,
I like what you are doin', I like what I see
You gotta finish what you started... I know You will in me Lord...
I'll never be the same in me Lord
In the song "Finish What You Started" by The Imperials, the lyrics describe a journey of self-discovery, and the realization that one's purpose in life cannot be found within oneself. The first stanza highlights the frustration of trying to figure oneself out while blaming others for one's problems. The second stanza shows the singer turning to Jesus for guidance, acknowledging that the answers do not lie within oneself. The chorus emphasizes the transformation that occurs when one lets go of the need for control and allows Jesus to work in their life. The song is a reminder that true fulfillment and purpose can only be attained through a relationship with God.
The lyrics in "Finish What You Started" reflect themes that are relevant to many people. The feeling of being lost and searching for meaning is a universal experience, and this song offers hope and direction for those who are struggling. The idea that we cannot find purpose within ourselves is a humbling realization, but it is one that allows us to surrender our control and to trust in a higher power. "Finish What You Started" is a powerful and uplifting reminder that personal transformation is possible through faith.
Line by Line Meaning
Used to spend my whole life tryin' to figure me out blaming everybody but me.
In the past, I used to constantly struggle to understand myself and would always blame others for my problems.
Used to love to listen people talking about instant liberty.
I used to enjoy hearing people talk about achieving instant freedom and happiness.
I just kept on tryn' but nothing made a change.
Despite my efforts, nothing seemed to change in my life.
Seems like all their answers to what I wanted to be never applied to me but when I came to Jesus tired of that kind of life I asked him just what to do.
It felt like the advice and guidance I received from others never quite suited me, but once I turned to Jesus and was tired of my old ways, I asked Him for direction.
He said we're starting over no more looking inside the answer is not in you.
Jesus told me that we are starting fresh and that I should stop searching within myself for the answers because they cannot be found there.
This is the beginning of what I want to be.
I feel like I am finally on the right path towards becoming the person I truly want to be.
He's changing me completely, every day I can se it's Jesus workin' in me
I can see that Jesus is fully transforming me every day and His presence is evident in my life.
Finish what you started in me Lord, I like what I see
Dear God, please continue to work in me until the transformation is complete. I am pleased with the progress so far.
But I love, I love what you're doin' in me, I like what you are doin', I like what I see
I love the positive changes that God is bringing into my life and I am content with the progress I have made thus far.
You gotta finish what you started... I know You will in me Lord...
I trust that God will continue to transform me until His work in me is complete.
I'll never be the same in me Lord
Due to the transformation that God is bringing about in my life, I know that I will never be the same again.
Writer(s): OMARTIAN MICHAEL, TAFF RUSSELL DEE, TAFF VICTORIA M
Contributed by Julia P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@meme8155
I am fighting a life threatening disease. The Dr's have said they are doing everything they can, but I could die at any moment. I have two small children who need their dad. I drifted away from God for a long time. Knowing my day is near, listening to this music gives me hope God can heal my body. Thank you so much for allowing me to hear this music !!
@pamtebelman2321
Amen, I'm praying for you, Brother. "Be healed in the Name of Jesus!" "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers them out of them ALL." Psalm 34:19
@jeffreyscottharris
The best Imperials album EVER! And the best version of the Imperials since the inception of the group back in the late 60's. Russ Taff never sounded better. He was really awesome back then...
@uncielodeamor
Love the Imperials, Russel Taff has an incredible voice. This song reminds me of the beginning times of my walk with the Lord.
@dailyran8287
This album won Russ Taff his Grammys- 1982: Male Vocalist of the Year-1981 Best Gospel Performance, Contemporary or Inspirational for Priority-- Also marks the height of the imperials career and the last album with Russ as lead vocals- at this point in CCM they were truly untouchable, unstoppable-considered the dream team of 4 part harmony.
@pntbtr
This was my favorite when first heard it in my college days! Sends chills in me! 😁 still powerful!
@eric777100763
Thank you Jesus for finishing what you have started within me!!!
@pamtebelman2321
Amen!
@RockLee4me
Thank you so much for up loading these. I love how their music can make you feel good and have a message to encourage you. This has really blessed my soul.
@pamtebelman2321
Amen, ditto.