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
Kumbaya is a well-known spiritual folk song. The lyrics are simple but powerful, calling for peace, unity, and divine presence with the repeated line Kumbaya, my Lord.
Originally thought to come from the Gullah-speaking communities of the American South, Kumbaya means come by here. Over time, it grew into a worldwide symbol of togetherness and compassion.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 1926 |
| Writer | Traditional |
| Notable Recordings | Pete Seeger, Joan Baez, The Folksmiths, The Weavers, The Seekers |
Complete Lyrics of Kumbaya
Verse 1
Kumbaya my Lord, kumbaya
Kumbaya my Lord, kumbaya
Kumbaya my Lord, kumbaya
Oh Lord, kumbaya
Verse 2
Someone’s singing, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s singing, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s singing, Lord, kumbaya
Oh Lord, kumbayah
Verse 3
Someone’s laughing, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s laughing, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s laughing, Lord, kumbaya
Oh Lord, kumbaya
Verse 4
Someone’s crying, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s crying, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s crying, Lord, kumbaya
Oh Lord, kumbaya
Verse 5
Someone’s praying, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s praying, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s praying, Lord, kumbaya
Oh Lord, kumbaya
Verse 6
Someone’s sleeping, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s sleeping, Lord, kumbaya
Someone’s sleeping, Lord, kumbaya
Oh Lord, kumbaya
Oh Lord, kumbaya
Similar Songs Like Kumbaya
If you love the peaceful message and timeless feel of Kumbaya, here are some more songs performed by that carry similar heart, meaning, and style:
- We Shall Overcome: This song became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement. Joan’s version is strong and hopeful, calling for unity and social justice.
- Amazing Grace: With a slow, calm pace and heartfelt voice, this classic hymn speaks about redemption, kindness, and spiritual light that never fades away.
- Blowin’ in the Wind: Originally by Bob Dylan, Joan’s cover adds soft emotion. The lyrics ask deep questions about freedom, peace, and how long we must wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Kumbaya First Recorded?
The first known recording was made in 1926 by Robert Winslow Gordon, featuring a Gullah singer named H. Wylie.
Did Anyone Claim To have Written Kumbaya?
Marvin V. Frey claimed authorship and copyrighted a version in 1939, but historical evidence does not support his claim.
How has Kumbaya been Used Culturally?
It has been sung in churches, at protests, and around campfires, and the phrase sing Kumbaya has become a cliché for idealistic unity.
