Introduction
“Just a Little Talk with Jesus” is a beloved gospel hymn penned by Reverend Cleavant Derricks in the early 1930s. Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 1910, Derricks was a pastor, choir director, and prolific songwriter who composed over 300 gospel songs during his lifetime . He wrote this particular song during the Great Depression while serving as a pastor in Alabama . In 1936, Derricks sold the song to Stamps-Baxter Music Company in exchange for fifty songbooks, which he then sold for ten cents each .
The song’s lyrics express the transformative power of prayer and personal communion with Jesus, themes that resonated deeply within both Black and White gospel traditions. Its simple yet profound message, coupled with an accessible melody, contributed to its widespread popularity. Over the years, “Just a Little Talk with Jesus” has been recorded by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, The Fairfield Four, and The Stanley Brothers .
In 2012, Bill and Gloria Gaither featured the song in a live performance with The Statler Brothers, further cementing its status as a gospel classic. This rendition showcased the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to bring together artists from different backgrounds to celebrate a shared spiritual heritage.
Reverend Cleavant Derricks’ contribution to gospel music was recognized posthumously with his induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1984 . “Just a Little Talk with Jesus” remains a testament to his legacy, continuing to inspire and uplift audiences around the world.
