The 23rd Psalm (Bobby McFerrin)

The Duke Chapel Staff Singers made this recording of Bobby McFerrin's "The 23rd Psalm" to be included in the Chapel's worship service on October 11, 2020.

Written in a gentle, meditative style influenced by the speech rhythms of chant, McFerrin’s setting is dedicated to his mother. He uses female pronouns and names for the Trinity throughout the text in an effort to “address a group of singers who felt excluded by the patriarchal aspects of the Bible.” In the printed score, he concludes his introductory notes by stating that, “Whether we visualize or praise the Lord in terms of gender or in other personal ways, the beauty of the 23rd Psalm is in the worship and in the music.”

The 23rd Psalm by Bobby McFerrin, © 2003 ProbNoblem Music (BMI).

[Shiloie]

Absolutely gorgeous. I am singing this at the interment of my dear sister at a little country graveyard in Central Blissville, New Brunswick Canada next week Tuesday May 11th. Marion was an Anglican chorister schooled within the Royal School of Church Music program and tradition, along with 4 other of we Knox children .We sang at the magnificent Trinity Church (1784) in Saint John, New Brunswick Canada. The interment will be officiated by Archbishop (retired) Claude Miller and I will be accompanied by the harmonies of birdsong, simplicity and spring breezes. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me, all the days of my life. Take care dear American friends and Thank you so much Duke Chapel Staff Singers.

[menolopes]

When we sing "the lord"... who is the lord this psalm is singing about?

[alvinhendricks]

she makes me lie down???no sir and no mam