Composer

:

Traditional Spiritual

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Spiritual

Compose Date

:

before 1865

Average_duration

:

3:29

"Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen" is a traditional spiritual that originated in the African American community during the era of slavery in the United States. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have been created in the mid-19th century. The song has been performed by countless artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson, Louis Armstrong, and Sam Cooke. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows. The song is typically performed in a slow, mournful tempo, with a simple melody and lyrics that express feelings of sadness, loneliness, and despair. The lyrics speak of the hardships and struggles of life, and the sense of isolation that can come from feeling like nobody understands or cares about one's troubles. The song is typically performed in a call-and-response format, with a lead singer singing the verses and a choir or audience responding with the refrain "Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, nobody knows but Jesus." Despite its somber tone, the song is also a testament to the resilience and faith of the African American community in the face of adversity. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and the possibility of redemption. Overall, "Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen" is a powerful and enduring example of the spirituals that emerged from the African American community during the era of slavery. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless classic of American music.

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