About the song
In the vibrant tapestry of 1970s music, Billy Preston’s rendition of “My Sweet Lord” stands as a soulful and spiritually uplifting gem. While George Harrison’s version of the song would later become a global sensation, Preston’s original recording offers a unique and powerful interpretation.
Originally intended for Edwin Hawkins, a renowned gospel singer, “My Sweet Lord” found its way to Billy Preston through a series of musical connections. Recorded in London with a talented ensemble of musicians, including members of The Temptations’ backing band and the Edwin Hawkins Singers, Preston’s version captured the essence of gospel music with its infectious rhythm and heartfelt vocals.
Unlike Harrison’s later rendition, Preston’s “My Sweet Lord” features the “hallelujah” refrain from the beginning, creating a more immediate and energetic atmosphere. Additionally, the Vedic prayer “Hare Krishna” is sung only twice throughout the song, allowing the gospel elements to shine through. Critics and fans alike have praised Preston’s version for its raw emotion and authentic gospel sound.
While Preston’s “My Sweet Lord” didn’t achieve the same commercial success as Harrison’s version, it remains a beloved and influential track. Its soulful melodies and uplifting message continue to resonate with audiences today, serving as a testament to the enduring power of gospel music.
Video
Lyrics
My sweet Lord
My Lord
Mmm, my Lord
I really want to see you
Really want to be with you
Really want to see you, Lord
But it takes so long, my Lord
My sweet Lord
My Lord
My Lord
I really want to know you
Really want to go with you
Really want to show you, Lord
But it won’t take long, my Lord (Hallelujah)
My sweet Lord (Hallelujah)
My Lord (Hallelujah)
My sweet Lord (Hallelujah)
Really want to see you
Really want to see you
Really want to see you, Lord
Really want to see you, Lord
But it takes so long, my lord (Hallelujah)
My sweet Lord (Hallelujah)
My Lord (Hallelujah)
My Lord (Hallelujah)
I really want to know you (Hallelujah)
Really want to go with you (Hallelujah)
Really want to show you, Lord (Ah, ah)
But it won’t take long, my Lord (Ah, ah, hallelujah)
Mm, mm, mm (Hallelujah)
My sweet Lord (Hallelujah)
My, my Lord (Hallelujah)
Mm, mm, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
My, my, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
Oh, oh my sweet Lord (Krishna Krishna)
Ooh, ooh, ooh (Hare Hare)
Now, I really want to see you (Hare Rama)
Really want to be with you (Hare Rama)
Really want to see you, Lord (Ah, ah)
But it takes so long, my Lord (Ah, ah, hallelujah)
Mm, my Lord (Hallelujah)
My, my, my Lord (Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Krishna Krishna)
My lord (Hare Hare)
Mm, mm (Gurur Brahma)
Mm, mm (Gurur Vishnu)
Mm, mm (Gurur Devo)
Mm, mm (Maheshwarah)
My sweet Lord (Guru Sakshata)
My sweet Lord (Parabrahma)
My, my, my Lord (Tasmayi Shree)
My, my, my, my Lord (Guruve namah)
My sweet Lord (Hare Rama)
(Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Hare Krishna)
My sweet Lord (Krishna Krishna)
My lord (Hare Hare)