Be Thou My Vision: Corrine May

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Corrinne May is a Singaporean singer-songwriter and pianist celebrated for her heartfelt and soulful music. She has a distinctive style that blends contemporary and classical influences, often featuring deeply spiritual and introspective lyrics. Throughout her career, May has released several albums, and her music frequently explores themes of love, faith, and personal growth.

One of her notable works is her cover of the classic Christian hymn "Be Thou My Vision." This hymn has a rich history that dates back to the 8th century. The original text, "Rop tú mo Baile," was written in Old Irish and is attributed to Dallán Forgaill, a revered poet and scholar. Dallán Forgaill lived around the 6th century and is also known for his composition of the "Amra Choluim Chille," a eulogy for St. Columba, an important figure in Irish Christianity.

"Be Thou My Vision" was composed under circumstances that reflected the poet’s deep spirituality and devotion. Dallán Forgaill, who reportedly became blind later in life (his name means "little blind one"), wrote this hymn as a declaration of faith and reliance on God, seeking divine guidance and wisdom. The hymn's timeless appeal lies in its profound expression of a believer’s desire for God to be the central focus and guiding force in their life.

The hymn was later translated into English by Mary E. Byrne in 1905, and subsequently, it was versified by Eleanor Hull in 1912. Hull’s version is the one most commonly sung today. The melody most often associated with the hymn is "Slane," an Irish folk tune named after Slane Hill, where St. Patrick is said to have defied the pagan king by lighting a Paschal fire.

Corrinne May’s rendition of "Be Thou My Vision" brings a contemporary feel to this ancient hymn. Her cover preserves the hymn’s meditative and reverent tone while infusing it with a modern, personal touch. May’s soulful interpretation, combined with her unique musical style, resonates deeply with modern audiences, bridging the gap between the ancient and the contemporary. Her version allows listeners to experience the timeless message of seeking divine guidance and vision in a way that feels fresh and relevant today.