Lift Every Voice And Sing Lyrics PDF Free Download

Lift Every Voice And Sing Lyrics PDF Download Info

Lift Every Voice and Sing, often referred to as the Black National Anthem, is a song that encapsulates the rich history, struggle, and triumph of African Americans in the United States. Composed by James Weldon Johnson with music by his brother John Rosamond Johnson, this iconic anthem has become a symbol of hope, unity, and determination. In this article, we will delve into the powerful lyrics of Lift Every Voice and Sing, exploring their historical significance, enduring relevance, and the deep emotions they evoke.

Lift Every Voice And Sing Lyrics

Lift every voice and sing
Till earth and heaven ring,
Ring with the harmonies of Liberty;
Let our rejoicing rise
High as the listening skies,
Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.
Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,
Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;
Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,
Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod,
Bitter the chastening rod,
Felt in the days when hope unborn had died;
Yet with a steady beat,
Have not our weary feet
Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?
We have come over a way that with tears has been watered,
We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered,
Out from the gloomy past,
Till now we stand at last
Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years,
God of our silent tears,
Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way;
Thou who hast by Thy might,
Led us into the light,
Keep us forever in the path, we pray.
Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee,
Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee;
Shadowed beneath Thy hand,
May we forever stand,
True to our God,
True to our native land.

Historical Significance

The lyrics of Lift Every Voice and Sing were penned in 1899 by James Weldon Johnson as a poem. They were later set to music by his brother John Rosamond Johnson. The song was first performed in Jacksonville, Florida, as part of a celebration of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. Over the years, it gained prominence within the African-American community and beyond.

These powerful lyrics hold immense historical significance. They were written during a period marked by racial segregation, discrimination, and the painful legacy of slavery in the United States. Lift Every Voice and Sing became an anthem of hope and resilience, inspiring African Americans to persevere in the face of adversity.

Enduring Relevance

Despite the song’s origins in a particular historical context, its message remains relevant today. The lyrics of Lift Every Voice and Sing convey universal themes of hope, faith, and unity. They remind us that, regardless of the challenges we face, we must continue to strive for justice, equality, and freedom.

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The song’s call to lift every voice and sing is a powerful reminder that individual voices, when united, can bring about meaningful change. It emphasizes the importance of collective action and solidarity in the pursuit of a better future.

Emotional Impact

The emotional impact of Lift Every Voice and Sing is profound. The song’s lyrics acknowledge the struggles and sacrifices of past generations while expressing a deep sense of hope for a brighter future. The image of the rising sun of our new day evokes a feeling of optimism and renewal.

The song also acknowledges the painful history of African Americans, with lines like Stony the road we trod and Bitter the chastening rod. However, it transforms this history into a source of strength and determination. The reference to coming out from the gloomy past symbolizes the resilience of the African-American community.

Unity and Inspiration

Lift Every Voice and Sing has served as a unifying force within the African-American community. It has been sung at countless gatherings, from church services to graduations, as a symbol of unity and pride. The song’s lyrics inspire individuals to come together in celebration of their shared history and aspirations for a better future.

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Throughout the civil rights movement of the 20th century, Lift Every Voice and Sing was sung at marches, protests, and rallies. It became a rallying cry for those advocating for an end to racial segregation and inequality. The song’s call to “march on till victory is won” encapsulated the determination of civil rights activists to achieve justice and equality.

Modern Interpretations

Lift Every Voice and Sing has transcended its historical context to become a song of universal appeal. It has been performed and interpreted by a wide range of artists and musicians, each adding their unique touch to the song. From gospel choirs to jazz ensembles, the song’s adaptability allows it to resonate with diverse audiences.

Notable artists, including Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, and Kim Weston, have performed renditions of the song, bringing it to new generations and introducing it to broader audiences. These modern interpretations maintain the song’s relevance and ensure that its message continues to inspire and uplift.

Conclusion

The lyrics of Lift Every Voice and Sing hold a special place in the hearts of many. They remind us of the enduring strength and resilience of the African-American community and serve as a beacon of hope and unity for all. As we reflect on these powerful lyrics, we are reminded that, in the face of adversity, it is through collective action and unwavering hope that we can march on toward a future where justice, equality, and freedom prevail. Lift Every Voice and Sing stands as a timeless anthem of hope and a call to action for a better world.

Lift Every Voice And Sing Lyrics PDF Free Download