Composer

:

Traditional Spiritual

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

3:53

"Joshua" 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 tells the story of Joshua, a biblical figure who led the Israelites into the Promised Land. The song has a simple melody and is typically performed a cappella or with minimal instrumentation. It is characterized by its call-and-response structure, with a lead singer singing a line and the rest of the group responding with a repeated phrase. The lyrics are often improvised and can vary from one performance to another. "Joshua" has been performed by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson, Paul Robeson, and Odetta. It has also been featured in various films and television shows, including the 2013 film "12 Years a Slave." The song is typically divided into three movements. The first movement introduces the story of Joshua and his mission to lead the Israelites to the Promised Land. The second movement describes the obstacles that Joshua and his followers face on their journey, including the Jordan River and the walls of Jericho. The third movement celebrates Joshua's victory and the fulfillment of God's promise to his people. Overall, "Joshua" is a powerful and uplifting song that has played an important role in African American history and culture. Its message of perseverance and faith in the face of adversity continues to resonate with audiences today.

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