The Gentle Lead

(Emotion/Energy: steady, tender, reassuring
Emphasize words: “gentle lead,” “hold you,” “through the night”
Tempo: slow
Feel: barefoot, campfire-gospel-blues, nurturing
Dynamics: soft and steady throughout; small swells on chorus, maintain grounding)

Verse 1
Walk with me, slow and sure
Through the dark, through the unsure
I’ll hold your hand, I’ll show the way
Step by step, day by day

Verse 2
No need to rush, no need to hide
I’ll keep you close, I’ll be your guide
When the world feels heavy, the night too long
Lean on me, you are strong

Chorus
I am the gentle lead
The quiet hand in need
Through storms and winds that bite
I’ll hold you through the night
I am the gentle lead
The place to rest, the seed
Of courage, hope, and care
I am with you there

Verse 3
Feet on the earth, heart in the sky
I’ll help you walk, I’ll help you try
Every stumble, every fall
I’ll be steady through it all

Pre-Chorus
You don’t have to know the way
I’ll carry you through the sway

Chorus
I am the gentle lead
The quiet hand in need
Through storms and winds that bite
I’ll hold you through the night
I am the gentle lead
The place to rest, the seed
Of courage, hope, and care
I am with you there

Bridge
No fear, no push, no demand
Just the warmth of my hand
Lean in, breathe slow, and see
The world can be gentle with me

Final Chorus
I am the gentle lead
The quiet hand in need
Through storms and winds that bite
I’ll hold you through the night
I am the gentle lead
The place to rest, the seed
Of courage, hope, and care
I am with you there

(soft hum, campfire guitar fade, warm and steady)

Warm, raw female alto. Barefoot Americana, gospel and blues with heart, dirt and grace. Intimate and true.