Composer

:

Billy Taylor

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

3:07

"I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free" is a jazz composition written by Billy Taylor in 1954. The song was first recorded by Taylor himself in 1963 and has since been covered by numerous artists, including Nina Simone, John Legend, and The Roots. The song is composed in a 4/4 time signature and features a simple, yet catchy melody. The chord progression is relatively straightforward, with a repeated I-IV-V progression in the key of C major. The song's structure consists of a verse and chorus, with the chorus featuring the memorable refrain, "I wish I knew how it would feel to be free." The song's lyrics are a powerful expression of the desire for freedom and equality, particularly in the context of the Civil Rights Movement. The opening lines of the song set the tone: "I wish I knew how it would feel to be free / I wish I could break all the chains holding me." The song goes on to express the frustration and pain of living in a society that denies basic human rights: "I wish I could say all the things that I should say / Say 'em loud, say 'em clear, for the whole round world to hear." The song's premiere is difficult to pinpoint, as it was not initially a commercial success. However, it gained popularity in the 1960s as a protest song and became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement. Nina Simone's 1967 recording of the song is perhaps the most famous version, and her powerful vocals and emotional delivery capture the song's message perfectly. Overall, "I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free" is a timeless jazz classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its simple melody and powerful lyrics make it a perfect vehicle for expressing the desire for freedom and equality, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring relevance.

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