Musicians & Composers · Mid 20th Century
Martin Luther King Jr.’s Last Words
“Ben, make sure you play 'Precious Lord, Take My Hand' in the meeting tonight. Play it real pretty.”— Martin Luther King Jr., April 4, 1968
Who Was Martin Luther King Jr.?
Martin Luther King Jr. was the most prominent leader of the Civil Rights Movement, leading campaigns for racial equality through nonviolent resistance.
The Final Moments
King was shot on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. His final words were to musician Ben Branch.
Are These Words Verified?
Ben Branch, the musician King addressed, and multiple other witnesses at the Lorraine Motel confirmed these words moments before the assassination. This is one of the most well-documented final statements in modern American history, corroborated by multiple firsthand accounts.
Sources
- firsthand Ben Branch firsthand account
- firsthand Testimony from those present at Lorraine Motel
- archive FBI and police reports from assassination investigation
Legacy
King's legacy as America's greatest civil rights leader is unassailable; the MLK national holiday honors him annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Martin Luther King Jr.’s last words?
“Ben, make sure you play 'Precious Lord, Take My Hand' in the meeting tonight. Play it real pretty.”
How did Martin Luther King Jr. die?
Martin Luther King Jr. died on April 4, 1968 at the age of 39. Cause of death: Gunshot.
Were Martin Luther King Jr.’s last words documented?
Ben Branch, the musician King addressed, and multiple other witnesses at the Lorraine Motel confirmed these words moments before the assassination. This is one of the most well-documented final statements in modern American history, corroborated by multiple firsthand accounts.