Al Green

Lyrics

[Intro]
Free at last, free at last
Thank God almighty, I'm free at last

[Verse 1]
I'm alright
'Cause you're here tonight
Thank God almighty
Everything's alright
It's been a long, long climb
Glad I made it over
Can't stop myself from crying
Feeling all wrapped up in clover

[Chorus]
I can sing my song (Sing)
If you don't do me wrong
Thank God almighty
You're where you belong
I can sing my song (Sing)
Before too long
Thank God almighty
Sing my song

[Verse 2]
Pain we can defeat
Listen, baby
Honey has never been so sweet
You got children standing on their feet
Walking up and down the street, waving their hands and I'm
[Chorus]
Free at last (Free)
Free at last
Thank God almighty
Free at last
I can sing my song (Sing)
I can sing my song
Thank God almighty
I can sing my song
Free at last (Free)
Man, I said, free at last, oh
Ooh, God almighty
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Said I'm free at last (Free)
Free at last
It's all I could ask, babe, hey, yeah

[Outro]
Sing
Oh, my babe
I thank you, thank you, thank you, yeah
I thank you, yes
I got to thank you, yes (I got to thank you, yeah)
Thank God almighty, free at last
Yeah, baby (Yeah, baby)
You know what I mean, baby
Free, free, free
Free, free, free
Free, free, free, free, yeah, yeah
Oh, babe
So I can sing
Thank God
Thank God almighty, yeah
Free at last
We're free at last

If you're looking for a soulful track that inspires hope and freedom, Al Green's Free At Last ticks all the boxes. Released in 1973 as part of his third album, Livin' For You, this song has the power to move audiences with its message, sound, and structure. Through its connection to Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech and a traditional spiritual titled "Free At Last," Al Green creates a powerful testimony to human potential, liberation, and resilience. This track has been sampled by artists such as Jay-Z, Mary J. Blige, and UGK, cementing its place in music's hall of fame.

About Free At Last

Al Green's Free At Last is a soulful and uplifting song that showcases the artist's vocal range, songwriting prowess, and musical vision. The song starts with a catchy and simple guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. The bass and drums soon join in, creating a tight rhythm section that grooves effortlessly. Al Green's vocals are impeccable, mixing falsetto and chest voice in a way that highlights the emotional power and urgency of the lyrics.

The lyrics of Free At Last are inspiring and thought-provoking. The song references Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech, which called for racial equality, justice, and unity in the face of oppression and segregation. The last lines of the speech quote a traditional spiritual titled "Free At Last," which refers to the release from bondage and the attainment of freedom. Al Green cleverly uses this reference to create a metaphor for spiritual, social, and political liberation that goes beyond race. He sings, “Free at last, they took your life / They could not take your pride,” alluding to the struggle against oppression and the need for hope and determination.

The arrangement of Free At Last is also noteworthy. The song features a call-and-response structure that evokes gospel music and emphasizes the communal aspect of liberation. The background singers provide harmony and support to Al Green's lead vocals, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose. The instrumental section is also impressive, with the guitar and keyboard solos adding texture and variation to the song's overall sound.

Moreover, Free At Last has had a significant impact on music since its release. The song has been sampled by several notable artists, including Jay-Z on his Blueprint (Momma Loves Me) track, Mary J. Blige on No One Else and UGK on Living This Life. These samples attest to the song's timelessness, relevance, and influence on the evolution of different music genres, from hip hop to R&B.

In addition to its musical qualities, Free At Last is an example of the power of music to inspire hope, resilience, and transcendence. The song's message of freedom and pride resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds, reminding us of the importance of standing up for our rights, beliefs, and values. Al Green's Free At Last is a true masterpiece that showcases the artist's talent and vision and reminds us of the transformative potential of music.

• Release Date: December 6, 1973
• Artist: Al Green