Composer

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Traditional Spiritual

Genre

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Miscellaneous

Style

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Miscellaneous

Average_duration

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3:19

"Wade in the Water" is a traditional spiritual 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 was often sung by enslaved people as they worked in the fields or as they gathered for worship. 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 gained popularity during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, when it was often sung at protests and rallies. "Wade in the Water" is a song with multiple movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement is a call-and-response section, with the lead singer calling out "Wade in the water" and the choir responding with "Wade in the water, children." This section is often repeated throughout the song. The second movement features verses that describe biblical stories and characters, such as the story of Moses leading the Israelites through the Red Sea. These verses are often sung by a soloist, with the choir joining in on the refrain. The third movement is a more upbeat section, with the choir singing "God's gonna trouble the water" and clapping along to the rhythm. This section is often accompanied by hand clapping or foot stomping. Overall, "Wade in the Water" is a powerful and emotional song that speaks to the struggles and triumphs of the African American community. Its use of biblical imagery and themes of liberation and freedom have made it a beloved spiritual that continues to be sung and celebrated today.

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