About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"His Eye Is on the Sparrow" is a gospel hymn that has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each bringing their unique interpretation to the beloved spiritual. Whitney Houston's rendition of the song, performed for the soundtrack of the 2012 film "Sparkle," stands out as a deeply moving and powerful version that showcases her exceptional vocal talent and emotional depth.
Originally written in 1905 by lyricist Civilla D. Martin and composer Charles H. Gabriel, "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" is inspired by biblical scripture, specifically the books of Matthew and Luke, which speak to God's watchful care over even the smallest of creatures. The hymn's lyrics offer a message of hope and reassurance, reminding listeners that they are never alone and that divine care is always present.
Whitney Houston's connection to gospel music runs deep, having been influenced by her mother, Cissy Houston, a renowned gospel singer, and her godmother, Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul. Whitney's roots in gospel were evident throughout her career, and her performance of "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" is a testament to her profound spiritual grounding and vocal prowess.
In "Sparkle," a remake of the 1976 film of the same name, Whitney Houston played the role of Emma, the mother of three daughters who form a successful singing group. The film, set against the backdrop of the 1960s music scene, marks Houston's final film role before her untimely death in February 2012. Her performance of "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" in the film is particularly poignant, given the personal and professional struggles she faced in the latter years of her life.
Houston's rendition of the hymn is characterized by its emotional intensity and vocal clarity. She begins the song with a soft, contemplative tone, drawing the listener in with her expressive delivery. As the song progresses, her voice swells with power and conviction, demonstrating her unparalleled ability to convey deep emotion through her singing. The arrangement of the song is simple yet effective, allowing Houston's voice to take center stage and resonate with listeners.
The scene in "Sparkle" where Houston sings "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" is a highlight of the film, capturing a moment of reflection and faith. Her performance serves as a reminder of her immense talent and the emotional depth she brought to her music. For many fans, this song is a bittersweet reminder of Houston's legacy and the impact she had on the music world.
Houston's version of "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" received critical acclaim, with many praising her vocal performance as a return to her gospel roots. The song stands as a testament to her enduring faith and resilience, qualities that she often drew upon in her personal and professional life. It also highlights her ability to transcend genre, bringing the same level of passion and artistry to gospel music as she did to pop and R&B.
In conclusion, Whitney Houston's performance of "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" is a powerful and moving rendition of a classic gospel hymn. It showcases her vocal brilliance, emotional depth, and spiritual roots, making it a standout moment in her illustrious career. The song serves as a fitting tribute to Houston's legacy, reminding listeners of the incredible talent and heartfelt passion that she brought to her music.
Video
Lydrics
[Verse 1]
Why should I feel discouraged
And Why should the shadows, shadows come
Lord Why, Why, Why should my heart, my heart feel lonely
And long for heaven, heaven and home, oh-yes
When, when Jesus, Jesus is, he is my portion
A, A constant Friend, constant Friend is He
Oh, oh-oh, his eye is on, his eye is on the sparrow
Oh yes I, I know He watches all over me
Yeah, hey
[Verse 2]
I sing (I sing)
I sing because (because)
I'm happy (happy)
Hallelujah
[Outro]
I sing (I sing)
I sing because (Because)
I'm free (I'm free)
I'm free
I know, I know his eye (His eye), hmm
His eye is on (Is on)
Is on the sparrow (Sparrow), oh yes he is
I know (Know), I know (And I know)
He watches, thank you Lord, over me
