The Staple Singers

Lyrics

5 ContributorsWade in the Water LyricsParoles de la chanson Wade In The Water :

(Chorus)
Wade in the water
Wade in the water, children
Wade in the water
God's gonna trouble the water

Well, who are these children all dressed in red?
God's a-gonna trouble the water
Must be the children that Moses led
God's a-gonna trouble the water

Chorus

Who's that young girl dressed in white
Wade in the Water
Must be the Children of Israelites
God's gonna trouble the Water

Chorus

Jordan's water is chilly and cold
God's gonna trouble the water
It chills the body, but not the soul
God's gonna trouble the water
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If you get there before I do
God's gonna trouble the water
Tell all of my friends I'm coming too
God's gonna trouble the water

Chorus
See that ban' all dress'd in white?
It look lak the childr'n of the Israelite
See that ban' all dress'd in red?
It look lak the ban' that Moses led
Wade in de water
Wade in de water
Wade in de water
God's a-gonna trouble de water

I stepped in water and the water is cold
Don't you know that
God's gonna trouble the water
Said it chilled my body but not my soul
Don't you know that
God's gonna trouble the water

Chorus
Well I went to the water one day to pray
Don't you know that
God's gonna trouble the water
And my soul got happy and I stayed all day
Don't you know that
God's gonna trouble the wateEmbed

Get ready to immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of "Wade in the Water" by The Staple Singers. This timeless song has its roots deep in history, having been first published in 1901 and recorded in 1925. But its origins can be traced back even further, to the days of the Underground Railroad. Often referred to as a "negro spiritual," this powerful melody served as not just a means of musical expression, but also as a secret communication tool for escaping slaves.

About Wade in the Water

Wade in the Water holds a special place in the legacy of African American music and the struggle for freedom. Dating back to the era of the Underground Railroad, this song played an integral role in aiding slaves in their escape to freedom. Secret meanings were embedded within the lyrics, allowing enslaved persons to communicate vital information without arousing suspicion.

Harriet Tubman, a notable figure in the fight against slavery, is said to have used "Wade in the Water" to signal escaping slaves to abandon the land and take to the water. By entering a river or stream, the scent of their tracks would be washed away, making it more challenging for slave catchers and their dogs to track them down. This clever tactic underscores the ingenuity and resourcefulness of those seeking liberation.

While the specific origins of the song could be elusive due to the nature of its underground usage, it was first published in 1901 in a collection called New Jubilee Songs as Sung by the Fisk Jubilee Singers by John Wesley Work II and his brother, Frederick J. Work. The Fisk Jubilee Singers, a renowned African American a cappella ensemble, introduced the song to a wider audience.

Over time, "Wade in the Water" became a staple in the repertoire of various artists, with The Staple Singers leaving their indelible mark on this powerful composition. This family gospel and soul group, consisting of patriarch Roebuck "Pops" Staples and his children Cleotha, Pervis, Mavis, and Yvonne, brought their unique blend of harmonies and passionate delivery to the song.

The Staple Singers' rendition of "Wade in the Water" beautifully captures the essence and spirit of the original "negro spiritual." Their soulful harmonies and Mavis Staples' distinctive, powerful vocals breathe new life into this historic composition. The song takes on a transcendent quality, allowing listeners to connect with the struggle for freedom and the resilience of those who dared to defy the oppressive structures of their time.

Throughout the years, "Wade in the Water" has remained a beloved anthem, resonating with audiences across different generations. Its enduring power lies in its ability to evoke profound emotions and convey a message of hope and strength in the face of adversity. The song serves as a reminder of the injustices of the past and the importance of continuing to fight for equality and justice today.

As you listen to The Staple Singers' rendition of "Wade in the Water," let the timeless melodies and poignant lyrics wash over you. Experience the rich history and significance of this song, and take a moment to reflect on the courageous individuals who risked it all for freedom.

Immerse yourself in the sounds of "Wade in the Water" and let it transport you to a time when music became a lifeline for those in pursuit of liberation.

• Release Date: 1967
• Artist: The Staple Singers