"A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke has become one of my favorite songs since hearing it in class a couple weeks ago. Each time I listen I'm inspired by Sam Cooke's powerful vocals, inspiring message, and emotional instrumental. I love the message this song contains about having a hope for a brighter future. One of my favorite lines is, "brother help me please." I find it tremendously inspiring that Sam Cooke chose this line because the best way for us to overcome trials is together. I find the message of the song very pertinent for the time of its release in 1964 which was at the peak of the Civil Rights Movement. In fact, the song is quite prophetic. It was actually written in 1963 and recorded in January of 1964, although it wasn't released until December of 1964. Between the months of its release in July was when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act which abolished racial segregation. I found that bit of history of the songs timeline quite interesting and it made the song even cooler to me. This song remains a classic because the quality of the music matches the quality of the message, making it a masterpiece.
I think the quality of the lyrics of a song have to match the quality of the music, this can either make or break a song and how popular it is among the people. It is cool how lyrics or a song that was produced decades ago can still be applicable or relevant today. Maybe someone will come out with a song to describe the pandemic in such a way that is moving like this one. I am going to go give this song a listen. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteElle Kucifer
Sam Cooke is an incredibly talented musician. My personal favorite of his is “Bring It On Home to Me”. He had a beautiful, soulful voice that transfixes me each time I hear it. I agree the plea for help is so heartfelt and powerful. And I especially love that you point out how the instrumentation and lyrics match in power. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
ReplyDelete- Amy DeLaMare