Paul Robeson "There is a Balm in Gilead" and "Curly Headed Baby" [by Stacey Harwood Lehman]

"The Essential Paul Robeson" was the first record album I bought myself after my dad gave me the gift of a stereo record player and speakers. It was on repeat for years and to this day during the Jewish holy days of Passover I listen to the songs of struggle, so many of which Robeson recorded over his lifetime. 

But it is his moving version of "There is a Balm in Gilead" that came to mind today, as I read in the New York Times of the successful germination in Israel of a 1,000 year old seed believed to be akin to Judean Balsam, the source of the balm of Gilead. It is a fascinating story. You can read more about it here. 

Here is Paul Robeson:

What a voice!

And just because so many friends are either having kids or becoming grandparents (and also because I have curly hair), here's Robeson singing the lullaby "Curly Headed Baby" another favorite from the same album:

 

Comments

[Robert McDowell]

Thanks for these links. I share your love of this great man. His voice always fills me with awe. "There Is a Balm in Gilead" is a special favorite. This is the Voice of God, the male half of God.