Joan Baez - Oh Freedom 1989
One of the most powerful lyrics of the Civil Rights era the song was originally a post Civil War African American freedom song which explains it's strong anti-slavery lyric and the promise of true freedom with the Lord after death.
Oh, freedom, Oh, freedom, Oh freedom over me. And before I'd be a slave I'd be buried in my grave And go home to my Lord and be free. No more moanin' etc. No more weepin' etc. No more shootin' etc. There'll be singing etc.
Oh, freedom, Oh, freedom, Oh freedom over me. And before I'd be a slave I'd be buried in my grave And go home to my Lord and be free.
No more moanin' etc.
No more weepin' etc.
No more shootin' etc.
There'll be singing etc.
more...
Dili, Tasi Tolu - East Timor Independence Day - Oh Freedom
Like many Civil Rights era songs "Oh Freedom" has been sung around the world. But it always seems most at home in church. Here's a Gospel Choir singing it for you.
Gospel Choir - Oh Freedom
This next version by Afro Blue was recorded at a Jazz Choir recital. Although it's not the best audio the harmonies are stunning. I could have used this in my acapella diary.
Afro Blue - Oh Freedom
Now here's baritone David Griffiths delivering the song's message with his deep rich powerful voice.
David Griffiths - Oh Freedom
Like much Gospel music the power of the song lies in the simplicity of the lyric and it's universal application to the human condition. Those who think that slavery ended with the end of the Civil War are taking a simplistic view of history and of slavery. True freedom is not for any of us in this life. But to strive for freedom should be everyone's goal.
Please post your favorite Gospel music and other music that changed the world in the comments.
Thanks,
Hairy Larry