(Hall Johnson)
This song written/arranged by the composer and arranger Hall Johnson was published in 1952. The music is based on a small piece of a spiritual folk song that was found in a collection by William Augustus Logan who was born in 1871.
The lyrics are based on a biblical narrative from John: 19: 26-27 and it was initially written for a solo baritone and a cappella chorus.
The song was recorded by Harry Belafonte for his chart topping 1956 album Belafonte and has since been performed in concert by many choirs and artists.
Sources:
- http://www.worldcat.org/title/take-my-mother-home-for-a-cappella-chorus-of-mixed-voices-with-baritone-solo-lyric-based-on-a-narrative-from-st-john-19-26-27-tune-based-on-a-fragrment-of-an-old-negro-folk-song-from-the-collection-by-wm-a-logan/oclc/705112867
- http://www.worldcat.org/identities/lccn-no93-5317
- http://www.bartspresenter.com/Resources/20111211173737_Russell.pdf
- http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+19%3A26-27&version=KJV
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belafonte_(album)
- http://www.allmusic.com/song/take-my-mother-home-mt0019341731