I Want To Be Saved

Rev. Gary Davis's song 'I Want To Be Saved' is a profound expression of a soul yearning for spiritual redemption and transformation. The repetitive plea, 'Oh, Lord I want to be saved,' underscores a deep desire for divine intervention and salvation. This repetition not only emphasizes the urgency of the request but also reflects a common practice in gospel and blues music, where repetition serves to drive home the emotional weight of the message.

The lyrics reveal a personal struggle with sin and the human condition. Phrases like 'Saved from the way I walk in' and 'Saved from the way I talk in' suggest a recognition of personal flaws and a desire to change one's ways. This acknowledgment of imperfection and the plea for salvation is a central theme in many spirituals and gospel songs, reflecting the artist's deep-rooted faith and the cultural context of seeking redemption through divine grace.

Rev. Gary Davis, known for his powerful voice and intricate guitar playing, often infused his music with religious themes. His background as a blind African American preacher in the early 20th century adds layers of authenticity and urgency to his music. The song's references to 'trouble,' 'hardest trial,' and 'lonesome journey' resonate with the struggles faced by many during that era, making the plea for salvation not just a personal cry but a communal one. The mention of 'enemies around me' and 'bed-a-dyin'' further highlights the omnipresent challenges and the ultimate desire for peace and salvation at life's end.

'I Want To Be Saved' is more than just a song; it's a heartfelt prayer set to music, capturing the essence of human vulnerability and the quest for spiritual redemption. It speaks to the universal human experience of seeking solace and transformation through faith, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with listeners today.