Composer

:

Traditional Spiritual

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

5:02

"Oh Freedom" is a traditional spiritual song that has been sung by African Americans for generations. 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 slaves as a way to express their desire for freedom and to provide hope for a better future. The song has been performed by many artists over the years, including Joan Baez, Harry Belafonte, and Odetta. It has also been featured in several films and television shows, including the movie "Selma" and the TV series "Underground." The song is typically performed in a call-and-response style, with the lead singer singing a line and the chorus responding with a repeated phrase. The lyrics of the song are simple but powerful, with each verse expressing a different aspect of the desire for freedom. The song is typically performed in three movements, with each movement building on the previous one. The first movement is slow and mournful, with the lead singer expressing the pain and suffering of slavery. The second movement is more upbeat, with the chorus responding with the repeated phrase "Oh freedom." This movement represents the hope and determination of the slaves to be free. The third movement is the most powerful, with the lead singer proclaiming that freedom has finally come and that the slaves are no longer bound by their chains. The characteristics of "Oh Freedom" are its simplicity, its powerful message, and its ability to inspire hope and determination in those who hear it. The song has become an anthem for the civil rights movement and continues to be sung today as a reminder of the struggle for freedom and equality.

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