Sam Cooke

Introduction

“A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke is an iconic musical masterpiece that transcends generations. Released in 1964, this soulful anthem has left an indelible mark on the world of music and social change. Sam Cooke’s velvety voice and poignant lyrics have made this song a symbol of hope, resilience, and the fight for justice.

Did You Know?

• Sam Cooke, often referred to as the “King of Soul,” was a trailblazing African American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur.
• “A Change Is Gonna Come” was inspired by Cooke’s personal experiences with racism and prejudice, as well as his encounters with civil rights activists like Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X.
• The song became an anthem for the civil rights movement and remains relevant in addressing societal issues even today.
• It has been covered by numerous artists, including Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, and Seal, further cementing its status as a classic.

Video

I was born by the river in a little tent
Oh, and just like the river I’ve been running ever sinceIt’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
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

There’ve 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