“Samson and Delilah”  is a traditional song based on the Biblical tale of Samson and his betrayal by Delilah.  Several versions have been recorded under various titles, including “If I Had My Way I’d Tear the Building Down” / “Oh Lord If I Had My Way” by Blind Willie Johnson in 1927.  (More from Wikipedia)

 

On the first LP by Peter, Paul and Mary, Peter, Paul and Mary (1962), “If I Had My Way” shows a songwriter of Rev. Gary Davis (earlier versions of this traditional song exist under the probable original name “Samson and Delilah”, “If I Had My Way I’d Tear the Building Down” and “Oh Lord If I Had My Way”, the latter by Blind Willie Johnson from 1927). 

(February 2015)