About the Song
“A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke is a poignant and powerful anthem of hope, resilience, and the struggle for equality. Released in 1964, this iconic track remains one of Cooke’s most enduring and influential songs, inspiring generations with its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody.
From the moment Cooke’s soul-stirring vocals begin, “A Change Is Gonna Come” transports listeners to a world of struggle and perseverance. His emotive delivery, infused with a sense of longing and determination, captures the pain and hope of the civil rights movement and the quest for justice and equality.
Lyrically, “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a deeply personal and introspective reflection on the African American experience in America. With lyrics like, “It’s been too hard living, but I’m afraid to die, ’cause I don’t know what’s up there beyond the sky,” Cooke speaks to the struggles and aspirations of a marginalized community, expressing a longing for freedom and a belief in the possibility of a better tomorrow.
As the song unfolds, Cooke’s vocals soar to new heights, conveying a sense of defiance and resilience that is both captivating and empowering. With each impassioned refrain and soulful riff, he channels the pain and hope of a generation, inviting listeners to join him in the struggle for justice and equality.
Musically, “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a masterclass in soul craftsmanship, with its stirring orchestration and haunting melody. Produced by Luigi Creatore and arranged by René Hall, the song’s dynamic arrangement and Cooke’s impassioned performance create a sense of urgency and emotional depth that is impossible to ignore.
But perhaps what makes “A Change Is Gonna Come” truly unforgettable is its universal message of hope and perseverance. Whether you’re marching for justice or simply listening in quiet reflection, the song’s emotional resonance speaks to the human experience in a profound and unforgettable way.
In the end, “A Change Is Gonna Come” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to Sam Cooke’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest voices in soul music. As we listen to his impassioned performance and feel the power of his words, we are reminded of the importance of standing up for what is right and working together to create a more just and equitable world.
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Lyric
I was born by the riverIn a little tentOh, and just like the river, I’ve been runningEver sinceIt’s been a longA long time coming, but I knowA change gon’ comeOh yes, it willIt’s been too hard livingBut I’m afraid to die‘Cause I don’t know what’s up thereBeyond the skyIt’s been a longA long time coming, but I knowA change gon’ comeOh yes, it willI go to the movieAnd I go downtownAnd somebody keep telling me“Don’t hang around”It’s been a longA long time coming, but I knowA change gon’ comeOh yes, it willThen, I go to my brotherAnd I say, “Brother, help me, please”But he winds up knockin’ meBack down on my knees, ohThere been times that I thoughtI couldn’t last for longBut now, I think I’m ableTo carry on