African American spirituals are songs that originated during the time of slavery in the United States. They were a way for enslaved people to express their emotions, hopes, and faith.
These songs often mixed African rhythms with Christian themes, creating a unique sound that was both a form of resistance and a source of comfort.
Spirituals played a key role in African American culture and are still an important part of music history today.
About the Song
Roll, Jordan, Roll is a powerful African American spiritual that expresses hope for freedom and the afterlife.
With its roots in the struggles of enslaved people, the song’s lyrics reflect the desire for deliverance, using the Jordan River as a symbol of crossing into a better life.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | 18th Century |
| Writers | Traditional |
| Producers | N/A |
Roll, Jordan, Roll Lyrics
Chorus
Roll Jordan roll
Roll Jordan roll
I want to get to heaven when I die
To hear ol’ Jordan roll
Roll Jordan roll
Roll Jordan roll
Oh, I want to get to heaven when I die
To hear ol’ Jordan roll
Verse 1
My brother, you ought to been there
Yes, my Lord
A-sitting in the kingdom
To see ol’ Jordan roll
Chorus
Roll Jordan roll
Roll Jordan roll
Oh, I want to get to heaven when I die
To hear ol’ Jordan roll
Verse 2
My mother, you ought to been there (ooh)
Yes, my Lord
A-sitting in the kingdom
To see ol’ Jordan roll, ooh
Chorus
Roll Jordan roll (roll Jordan roll)
Roll Jordan roll, oh
I want to get to heaven when I die
To hear ol’ Jordan roll
Oh, I want to get to heaven when I die
To see ol’ Jordan roll
Similar Songs Like Roll Jordan Roll
Here are some songs similar to Roll, Jordan, Roll that are also African American spirituals or gospel songs with themes of hope, freedom, and deliverance:
- Swing Low Sweet Chariot: This iconic spiritual speaks to the yearning for a better life and deliverance, offering a powerful message of hope for freedom.
- Wade In The Water: A stirring spiritual where water becomes a symbol of liberation, representing the path to freedom and redemption.
- Go Down Moses: Drawing from the Biblical tale, this song calls for freedom, echoing the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of bondage.
- Deep River: This spiritual centers on the aspiration to cross the river, symbolizing the journey toward heaven and eternal peace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Significance of Roll, Jordan, Roll?
The song is embedded in African American history and culture, often sung in churches and gatherings to inspire hope and remind listeners of the promise of deliverance and freedom.
Where Can I Hear Roll, Jordan, Roll?
You can find various renditions of the song on music platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music, including classic versions by Mahalia Jackson and modern takes by artists like John Legend.
