Susan Tedeschi: Lord Protect My Child

Penned by Bob Dylan, “Lord Protect My Child” was originally intended for his “Infidels” LP; however, it was not released until 1991 when it appeared on the box set “The Bootleg Series Volumes 1-3.” The song was one of 11 cuts from the 80s included in the set that spanned three decades.

This is a rather nice rendition from Susan Tedeschi’s 2005 release of “Hope and Desire.” The album was nominated for the Best Contemporary Blues Album in 2006, but did not win the Grammy.

The slide guitar is played by her guitarist husband Derek Trucks who is the front man for The Derek Trucks Band and a member of the Allman Brothers Band. His uncle, Butch Trucks, was a founding member of the band. The couple now perform together in their own ensemble – the Tedeschi Trucks Band.

Lyrics

For his age, he's wise
He's got his mother's eyes
There's gladness in his heart
He's young and he's wild
My only prayer is, if I can't be there,
Lord, protect my child

As his youth now unfolds
He is centuries old
Just to see him at play makes me smile
No matter what happens to me
No matter what my destiny
Lord, protect my child

While the world is asleep
You can look at it and weep
Few things you find are worthwhile
And though I don't ask for much
No material things to touch
Lord, protect my child

He's young and on fire
Full of hope and desire
In a world that's been raped, raped and defiled
If I fall along the way
And can't see another day
Lord, protect my child

There'll be a time I hear tell
When all will be well
When God and man will be reconciled
But until men lose their chains
And righteousness reigns
Lord, protect my child