In April 2017 Anita Pariseau performed this "Critical Karaoke," an art form combining original spoken word over a soundtrack, in front of a live audience of faculty, staff, students, and guests at Colorado College. She chose this piece of music by Mavis Staples to share an inspirational story about recovery from a traumatic brain injury and broken heart. With thanks to Professor Ryan Banagale (music) at Colorado College, along with recording studio staff Lewis Keller and Rishi Ling, who helped to recreate this intimate studio version.
God Is Not Sleeping
By Phil Roy
Performed by Mavis Staples
God is not sleeping, no
You’ve got to believe it, believe it
He’s the only one I know
never refuse me
never deceive me
In the struggles of my life
He’s right there beside me
protect me and guide me
From the hills cometh thy words
and those words live in my soul
That’s why I know, I know
God is not sleeping, no, no
You’ve got to believe it, believe it, hold on
Whatever your need is, hang on
God is not sleeping, oh no
In the stillness of the night
in every corner of the world
while we are sleeping
He is still working
When the prayers go up
the blessings come down
yes, He is working
He never stops working
God is not sleeping, no, no
You’ve got to believe it, believe it, hold on
Whatever your dream is, hang on
God is not sleeping, no, no
Everything I have is temporary
Only love is necessary
Everything I own is temporary
Only love is necessary
Everything I have is temporary
Only love is necessary
Everything I own is temporary
Only god’s love is necessary, necessary, necessary, necessary
God is not sleeping, no, no
You’ve got to believe it, believe it, hold on
Whatever your need is, hang on
God is not sleeping
He’s not sleeping
God is not sleeping
God is not sleeping
God is alive, He’s alive, oh, He’s alive
God is not sleeping, no, no
In every corner of the world
While we are sleeping
He is still working
