Sweet Little Jesus Boy

Grade Level 2

Year: 2023

Composer: Robert MacGimsey, arr. James Curnow

Program Notes:

Often mistaken as a traditional spiritual, “Sweet Little Jesus Boy” was composed in 1934 by Robert MacGimsey who intentionally wrote the song in this style. It harkened back to his youth in Louisiana where he was steeped in the deep tradition of African American gospel music. In this culture, Christmas was a time to draw closer to God through personal prayer and meaningful songs, which was a stark contrast to what he observed in New York when he penned the song. 

Written during the depression, “Sweet Little Jesus Boy” quickly became a standard Christmas tune, along with several other songs written at this time. Recorded by many artists over the years, the soulful recording by Mahalia Jackson in 1955 is perhaps the most famous.

This solo incorporates two verses and two choruses of the spiritual with an interlude by the accompaniment, written in the same style as the original song. Here are the lyrics that this arrangement is based on:

Sweet little Jesus boy

They made you be born in a manger.

Sweet little holy child

We didn't know who you were.

Didn't know you'd come to save us Lord.

To take our sins away

Our eyes were blind, we could not see

We didn't know who you were.

You have told us how.

We are trying.

Master, you have shown us how

Even when you were dying.

Just seems like we can't do right.

Look how we treated you

But please Sir forgive us Lord

We didn't know it was you.

Sweet little Jesus boy

Born a long time ago.

Sweet little holy child

We didn't know who you were.

American Instrumental Ensemble Series (AIES/ABES) [aies2023]