Jackson Southernaires, I Need You To Hold My Hand

In the 29th edition of Music Lifts (2025), we’re uplifted by Jackson Southernaires performing “I Need You To Hold My Hand.”

Welcome to Music Lifts 🎶 🏋, featuring songs that encourage, inspire, and uplift the spirit; songs that exude fortitude, positivity, and resolve, even in the face of adversity.  Featured songs aren’t genre-specific; songs may or may not be faith-based. The goal is for these songs to make you feel better – be LIFTED to new heights! So, for the 29^th edition of Music Lifts 🎶 🏋 (2025), we highlight “I Need You To Hold My Hand” as performed by Jackson Southernaires.

“Lord, You know that I’m Your child / And I’m doing the best that I can,” Frank Delano Williams (1947 – 1993) sings, speaking to God. He continues, sincerely singing, “Why my way gets so hard? /  You know, I just don’t understand / Oh Lord, I need You to hold my hand.” Although short-lived, Frank was a key member of multiple gospel groups, including one of Mississippi’s finest, the Jackson Southernaires. Among their most inspiring classics is “I Need You To Hold My Hand”, a song that speaks to the necessity of God. “Hand” is the seventh track on their 1981 album, A Touch of Class.

In the second verse, going to different places, Frank asserts that, “Many times I’m treated so bad.” Even so, he realizes, “I can’t miss a friend that I never had.” Let those words sink in.  Not everybody is going to be your friend.  Sometimes, those we believe are our friends are not. But, there is one Superfriend that you can always depend on and won’t ever let you down! Speaking of that super friend, rightfully, Frank is determined to “Continue to run for Jesus / Even if I have to run alone / ‘Cause it’s my determination / To make God’s beautiful Heaven my home.” Word.  And not just any word, a good, utterly wise word. During the vamp, with Frank continuing to sing his heart out, the Jackson Southernaires petition God to “Hold me,” and assert, “Somebody needs You.” Indeed! Perhaps you need some inspiration – something to lift the spirits! Please consider the enduring gospel gem that is “I Need You To Hold My Hand”.  It’s an oldie, but that message never fades or sours! It’s always sweet, sweet, sweet 👏 🙌!