I believe what I believe...

Song: "I Believe What I Believe" – Soulful Gospel/R&B Cabaret Anthem

(Gospel choir swells, acoustic guitar, piano, violin, drums/cymbals/claps, soulful cabaret lead with R&B ad-libs & theatrical praise swells—steady gospel groove building to conviction explosion)[Intro – Piano chords, soft violin pad, light claps]

(Soloist raspy cabaret, choir hums conviction underneath)

Lead: It is a lifestyle that I live by, (piano ripples)

To be seen and not heard unless spoken to by head authority.

It is my mission,

having love

fulfills the whole law. (violin swells soft)

Choir/Lead: I believe what I believe,

and doubt what I doubt,

But I don't doubt what I believe! (claps explode)

I believe what I believe,

and doubt what I doubt,

But I don't doubt what I believe!

Love covers a multitude

and He's always loving me,

As my first love!

(choir "Hallelujah!" harmony lift)

Lead: I believe what I believe, and doubt what I doubt,

Choir: Doubt what I doubt!

Lead: But I don't doubt what I believe.

Choir: No, I don't!

Lead: Love covers a multitude

and He's always loving me,

Choir: Always loving me!

Lead: As my first love.

(R&B run: "First lo-o-ove!")[Chorus – Bigger swell, ad-libs ignite]

Lead/Choir: I believe what I believe, and doubt what I doubt,

But I don't doubt what I believe!

(Yes Lord! ad-libs fly)

(Repeat x2, violin cries over handclaps)[Bridge – Slow burn: piano/trumpet soulful, spoken-sung rising to shout]

Lead (cabaret prayer tone): As it is into heaven let it here, in me—

Love, joy, peace, freedom, and justice!

(choir whispers fruits)

Speak Lord, speak to me! (pause, violin weeps)

Create in me a pure heart,

and—make me over with Your word,

Choir swells: Pure heart!

Lead: And cover me with Your love, and know that I know You know!

(theatrical arm raise)

Lead/Choir: I believe what I believe, and doubt what I doubt,

But I don't doubt what I believe!

(cymbals crash, full power)

(Repeat x3 – choir dominates, lead R&B scats: "I know-I-know-I-know!")

Choir (gentle): Love fulfills the whole law... I believe! (violin prayer closes)

Lead (whisper): First love... pure heart... Amen!