About the Song
The Platters, with their smooth harmonies and soulful vocals, were more than just a doo-wop group. They delivered songs that resonated with deeper emotions, and My Prayer stands as a prime example. Released in 1956, this powerful ballad transcended genre and cultural boundaries with its simple yet profound message of hope and longing.
My Prayer isn’t a religious song in the traditional sense. There are no specific mentions of deities or religious practices. Instead, it focuses on a universal human yearning for peace, understanding, and a brighter future. The opening line, “Oh, night time come, and bring me dreams,” sets the stage for a contemplative journey. The lyrics then flow into a heartfelt plea: “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” This simple yet powerful refrain is the cornerstone of the song, a message that resonates across generations and cultures.
The beauty of My Prayer lies in its universality. It doesn’t prescribe a specific path to peace; it simply asks for a collective effort to start within ourselves. The lyrics touch on themes of forgiveness (“Let me walk with my brother in perfect peace”) and empathy (“Let me share my wealth with the poor on earth”). This call for understanding and compassion transcends any religious or cultural boundaries, making the song a powerful anthem for a better world.
Musically, My Prayer is a masterclass in emotional delivery. The tempo is slow and deliberate, allowing the weight of the lyrics to sink in. The Platters’ signature harmonies are rich and powerful, conveying the sincerity of the message. The instrumentation is sparse, featuring only piano and strings, ensuring the focus remains on the vocals and the emotional core of the song.
My Prayer‘s legacy extends far beyond its chart-topping success in the 1950s. It has been covered by countless artists across genres, each adding their own interpretation to this timeless message. The song is often used in social justice movements and peace rallies, a testament to its enduring power to inspire and unite. My Prayer remains a poignant reminder of the shared human desire for a better world, a world where peace begins with each of us.
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Lyrics: “My Prayer”
When the twilight is gone and no songbirds are singing
When the twilight is gone you come into my heart
And here in my heart you will stay while I prayMy prayer is to linger with you
At the end of the day in a dream that’s divine
My prayer is a rapture in blue
With the world far away and your lips close to mineTonight while our hearts are aglow
Oh tell me the words that I’m longing to knowMy prayer and the answer you give
May they still be the same for as long as we live
That you’ll always be there at the end of my prayer