Petra Kaye, Oh It Is Jesus (Live) | Music Lifts

In the 20^th edition of Music Lifts (2026), we’re uplifted by gospel singer Petra Kaye performing, “Oh It Is Jesus (Live).”

[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”W” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color” shadow=”shadow” square=”square”]elcome to Music Lifts, featuring songs that encourage, inspire, and uplift the spirit; songs that exude fortitude, positivity, and resolve, even in the face of adversity.  Featured songs aren’t genre-specific; songs may or may not be faith-based. The goal is for these songs to make you feel better – be LIFTED to new heights!  So, for the 20^th edition of Music Lifts (2026), we highlight “Oh It Is Jesus (Live)” as performed by Petra Kaye.[/otw_shortcode_dropcap]

[nx_pullquote]“Oh, it is Jesus / Yes, it is Jesus / It’s Jesus in my soul.”[/nx_pullquote] Those powerful lyrics of praise were penned by a legendary gospel musician: Andraé Crouch (1942 – 2015).  As a standard, particularly in black churches, many soloists and choirs have covered it. One special rendition was performed by the talented, big-voiced Petra Kaye. “Oh It Is Jesus (Live)” is the fifth track from Kaye’s 2022 live album, Sing Praises (Live).

In Kaye’s hands, “Oh It Is Jesus (Live)” maintains a traditional, church sound that still sounds fresh in the 2020s. The band is 🔒 in.  Giving all the honor and glory to God, Petra delivers expressive, gritty, and ultra-soulful lead vocals. What stands out about her pipes is the depth and the huskiness, a quality I adore in female vocalists. Kaye’s ad-libs are everything.  It sounds as if she puts her all – her heart and soul –  into every note.  Anointed background vocals support her, carrying the familiar refrain:

“Oh, it is Jesus

Yes, it is Jesus

It’s Jesus in my soul

For I have touched the hem of his garment

And his blood

Has made me whole.”

Beyond leading the unforgettable refrain, Kaye excels in performing the verse.  After doing everything she could herself to no avail, she sought Jesus: “Then I heard Jesus, he was passing by / Then I decided, to give Him a try.” Even in this old-school rendition, Kaye and company take some risks.  The primary example is the adventurous harmonic progression and extended vamp on “For I have touched the…” Fittingly, Petra gives a dramatic ending, affirming “And his blood / Has made me whole.” No extensive analysis or commentary is necessary regarding  “Oh It Is Jesus (Live)”.  This brilliant live recording speaks for itself.  Petra Kaye DID THAT!