John P. Kee is a celebrated gospel singer and pastor known as the Prince of Gospel Music. His career spans over four decades, blending traditional gospel with contemporary sounds.
Starting in the 1980s, Kee formed the New Life Community Choir, which gained widespread acclaim.
His soulful, husky voice and heartfelt lyrics have made him a favorite in the gospel music genre. Kee has won numerous awards, including 27 Gospel Music Workshop of America Excellence Awards, 21 Stellar Awards, two Billboard Music Awards, and a Soul Train Award.
He was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2005 and honored as a BMI Trailblazer of Gospel Music in 2025.
About the Song
Standing In The Need of Prayer is a traditional gospel song performed by John P. Kee with the New Life Community Choir.
The song highlights the personal need for prayer and faith, emphasizing that it is the individual who stands in need of God’s help. John P. Kee’s version brings a lively and soulful spirit that connects with many gospel music fans.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released Date | 1989 |
| Album | Wash Me (feat… John P. Kee) |
| Writer | Traditional (Unknown) |
Standing In The Need Lyrics by John P. Kee
Verse 1: John P. Kee & (New Life Community Choir)
It’s me
It’s me oh Lord
I’m standing in the need
(I am standing in the need of prayer)
In the need of prayer
It is me
It’s me oh Lord
(I am standing in the need of prayer) I’m standing in the need
Of prayer
Chorus: John P. Kee & (NLCC)
Not my mother
(Not my mother)
Not my father
(Father)
Not my sister
(Sister)
Not my brother
(Or brother)
But it’s me-me-me-me
(But it’s me oh Lord) Hallelujah Jesus
It’s me Lord (But it’s me oh Lord)
Nobody nobody but me (But it’s me oh Lord)
I am standing in the need of prayer (I am standing in the need of prayer)
Verse 2: John P. Kee & (NLCC)
Oh Lordy! Listen! It’s not my Aunt Bessie
It’s not my friend or pal
But it’s me-me-mе-me-me-me-mе
(I am standing in the need of prayer) I am standing in the need
Oh Lordy of prayer
Not my sister Jean
Not my brother Al
But it’s me, oh Lordy
(I am standing in the need of prayer) I’m standing in the need of you Lord
Of Prayer
Chorus: John P. Kee & (NLCC)
Not my mother
(Not my mother)
Not my father
(Father)
Not my sister
(Sister)
Not my brother
(Or brother)
(But it’s me oh Lord) But it’s me oh Lord
I’ve had a breakthrough before, yes I have
This is John, calling on you once more
(I am standing in the need of prayer) I’m standing in the need of prayer
Dialogue: John P. Kee
Yes, listen. Not too long ago, I returned to Charlotte from Detroit, Michigan. There to find standing in the airport a young lady, tears rolling down her face. She said to me, “We need to rush to the hospital. There’s a choir member whose baby is lying at the point of death.” We rushed to Memorial Hospital, there stood her mother and father, tears in their eyes. The mother told me, “The doctor said he had done all he could do, the baby had a rare disease. She had second- and third-degree burns on the inside and the outside of her body.” Because of the burns, the baby’s mouth began to seal. The doctor said, “The results are confusing and all we can do is wait.” I want you to know while they were waiting, I began to pray. “Father in the name of Jesus, we need You!” How many know, when the doctor says, “No,” Jesus can still say, “Yes!” The doctor called told the mother, “Call the family in.” He was preparing them for the worst. I told the mother to call the family in,” so we could praise God in advance for what He was getting ready to do. How many know, God can take total disaster and turn it into total victory? He healed the baby
Vamp: NLCC & (John P. Kee)
He supplied my need
(He healed the baby, he supplied my need)
He supplied my need
(He healed the baby, he healed the baby)
(All you’ve gotta do is trust in Him, believe in Him, depend on Him)
He supplied my need
(Oh, it’s me oh Lord)
It’s me oh Lord
music fades
History and Significance
Standing in the Need of Prayer is a traditional African American spiritual that dates back to the 19th century.
Although the exact author is unknown, the song originated in the Southern United States and has become a staple in Black church traditions.
It reflects the personal and communal aspects of spiritual life, emphasizing that each individual must seek divine help independently.
Over the years, it has been used by choirs, soloists, and gospel artists alike for its powerful message of humility, faith, and self-reflection.
The song continues to connect across generations due to its simplicity and emotional weight.
Similar Songs Like Standing In The Need
If you felt connected to Standing in the Need of Prayer, John P. Kee has many other gospel songs that carry the same heartfelt power and message of faith. Here are a few that stand out:
- Jesus Is Real: This uplifting song shares a personal testimony of God’s presence, filled with soulful energy and strong choir backing that lifts your spirit.
- Show Up: The song opens with a robust build, reminding listeners that even in silence, God always shows up right on time.
- I Do Worship: Starts slow and tender, focusing on pure praise. It uplifts moments of worship with its soft vocals and heartfelt devotion.
- Wait on Him: A song that encourages patience and trust. The lyrics speak to anyone going through trials, reminding them not to give up on faith.
Similar Artists Like John K. Pee
Here are other artists who bring a similar gospel sound and spiritual energy as John P. Kee, known for blending choir vocals with powerful messages:
- Hezekiah Walker
Genre: Gospel
Top Albums: Souled Out (2008), Live in New York – By Any Means Necessary (1995) - Donnie McClurkin
Genre: Gospel, Worship
Top Albums: Live in London and More… (2000), Again (2003) - Fred Hammond
Genre: Gospel, Contemporary Christian
Top Albums: Pages of Life – Chapters I & II (1998), Spirit of David (1996) - Kirk Franklin
Genre: Gospel, Urban Contemporary Gospel
Top Albums: Hero (2005), The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin (2002) - Marvin Sapp
Genre: Gospel
Top Albums: Thirsty (2007), Here I Am (2010)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Standing In The Need Stand Out from Traditional Ones?
John P. Kee’s choir arrangement adds energy and soul, giving the old spiritual a powerful and modern gospel sound.
Can Standing In The Need be Used in Modern Worship Services?
Yes, its message is timeless, and the arrangement fits both traditional and contemporary church settings.
How does the Choir Impact the Standing In The Need Overall Feel?
The choir builds emotion, giving the message, warmth and strength that reaches the listener’s heart.
