Composer

:

Traditional Spiritual

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

3:14

"I Stood on de Ribber ob Jordan" is a traditional spiritual song that has been passed down through generations of African American communities. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have originated during the time of slavery in the United States. The song has since become a staple in the African American religious and cultural tradition. The song's premiere is also unknown, as it was likely passed down through oral tradition rather than being formally published or recorded. However, it has been performed and recorded by numerous artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson, Paul Robeson, and Odetta. "I Stood on de Ribber ob Jordan" is typically performed as a solo or group a cappella piece, with call-and-response vocals and simple harmonies. The song is divided into several verses, each of which tells a story or conveys a message related to the theme of crossing over to the other side of the Jordan River, which is often used as a metaphor for death and the afterlife. The song's lyrics are characterized by their simplicity and repetition, with each verse beginning with the phrase "I stood on de ribber ob Jordan" and ending with a variation on the refrain "I want to cross over into campground." The melody is similarly simple, with a slow and steady rhythm that emphasizes the song's contemplative and reflective tone. Overall, "I Stood on de Ribber ob Jordan" is a powerful and poignant expression of the African American experience, both in terms of its historical roots in slavery and its ongoing relevance to contemporary issues of race and identity. Its enduring popularity and continued performance by artists of all backgrounds is a testament to its enduring significance and cultural resonance.

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