Sam Cooke – A Change Is Gonna Come

About The Song

“A Change Is Gonna Come” is a seminal song by Sam Cooke, released in 1965. It is a soulful and poignant composition that addresses the civil rights movement and the struggles for equality. Here are five facts about “A Change Is Gonna Come”:

Inspiration and Context: Sam Cooke wrote “A Change Is Gonna Come” in response to the racial tensions and civil rights struggles of the 1960s. The song reflects both personal experiences and a broader social consciousness regarding the fight for equality.
Release and Reception: The song was released as a single on December 22, 1964, just days after Cooke’s tragic death. It gained even more significance after his passing, becoming a posthumous hit and one of his most enduring and celebrated works.
Musical Style: “A Change Is Gonna Come” blends elements of gospel, soul, and pop, showcasing Cooke’s versatile vocal range. The orchestration includes lush strings and a gospel choir, adding depth to the emotional impact of the song.
Lyricism: The lyrics of the song poetically address the struggles and hopes of African Americans during the turbulent era of the civil rights movement. Cooke’s introspective and emotive delivery adds a personal touch to the powerful message of the song.
Legacy and Cultural Impact: “A Change Is Gonna Come” has become an anthem for the civil rights movement and is considered one of the greatest songs in the history of American music. It has been covered and referenced by numerous artists across different genres, further solidifying its impact on popular culture. The song was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2007.

Video

Lyrics

I was born by the river
In a little tent
Oh, and just like the river, I’ve been running
Ever since

It’s been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon’ come
Oh yes, it will

It’s been too hard living
But I’m afraid to die
‘Cause I don’t know what’s up there
Beyond the sky

It’s been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon’ come
Oh yes, it will

I go to the movie
And I go downtown
And somebody keep telling me
“Don’t hang around”

It’s been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon’ come
Oh yes, it will

Then, I go to my brother
And I say, “Brother, help me, please”
But he winds up knockin’ me
Back down on my knees, oh

There been times that I thought
I couldn’t last for long
But now, I think I’m able
To carry on

It’s been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon’ come
Oh yes, it will