Although not original to Josh Groban, he made You Raise Me Up famous in 2003. The melody was written by Rolf Lovland and Brendan Graham wrote the lyrics. Secret Garden first sang the song in 2001. I discovered an estimate stating that over 125 different artists have covered this song, but Josh’s is the one that plays in my head whenever I hear an instrumental version. It is said that a traditional Irish tune inspired the melody.
Oldtimemusic.com states that You Raise Me Up is about love and support and how we can face challenges with the help of a loved one. I can see that. While I definitely think it is a song about offering comfort and strength in tough times I think there is more to it. As a Christian, it is very easy for me to interpret the lyrics as being about God lifting me up in the midst of trouble, sadness, and pain.
This song has been incredibly successful, in part because it is so relatable. Almost everyone can identify with having an experience where God, or someone they know, has helped them in their time of need.
Here are the lyrics:
When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary
When troubles come and my heart burdened be
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence
Until you come and sit awhile with me.
You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders
You raise me up to more than I can be.
I played this on my harp in church today. Even though it was an instrumental solo I could hear the lyrics in my head and they touched my heart.
Here is my recording of You Raise Me Up arranged by Kevin Smuts and Christy-Lyn Marais at learningtheharp.com. This particular version is an early-intermediate arrangement. I am playing a 33-string Jolie hybrid from musicmakers.