A medical electrical lead, a system for providing electrical stimulation or sensing using such a lead, and methods of implanting, making and using same are described. The lead includes a rapidly connectable and/or interchangeable distal line that may be attached to a connector located distally from a distal end of a stimulating electrode. The rapidly connectable or interchangeable line may be sutured to a patient's muscle or other tissue. A physician may select a distal suture line of the present invention on the basis of the desired characteristics of the line, and then connect, secure or attach same to the lead body just prior to the surgical operation in which the stimulating or sensing medical electrical lead of the present invention is to be employed. The desired characteristics of the suture line may relate to thickness or diameter, length, the material from which the line is made, biodegradability, and the like.