Fugees

Lyrics

[Lauryn Hill] Yo!
[Wyclef Jean] One time!

I was born by the river in a tenement
And oh.. my poor mother, she could hardly pay the rent

[Refrain:]
It's been a long a long time coming
But I know oohh.. a change is going to come
Awww yes, it will

[Wyclef Jean] Two time!

Yeah, it's been too hard living and I'm afraid to die (Why?)
I don't know what's out there, yeaah, yeaaah.. beyond the sky
Say it Wyclef, Say it

[Wyclef Jean] Check it out, uh uh, Awww Ma

Yo, See I go oohh.. to my brother
And I say brother, help me please
And he winds up, he winds up, knocking me, knocking me
Yeah, huh.. back down on my knees Ohhh!

[Wyclef Jean] Three time!
You might also likeIt's been times when I didn't think that I would last for long
But now we think they're bound... to carry on

[Wyclef Jean]
This has been the Fugees: L Boogie, Prize Well, Wyclef
The Refugees are OUT!Embed

Released as a bonus track on the UK version of the Fugees' album The Score in 1996, "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Fugees featuring Lauryn Hill is a powerful rendition of the original song by Sam Cooke. Over the years, the song has become an anthem for social justice and a symbol of endurance and hope. With Hill's soulful voice and the Fugees' signature hip-hop beats, the song takes on a new life, while still retaining the essence of the original.

About A Change Is Gonna Come (UK Bonus Track)

The Fugees' version of "A Change Is Gonna Come" begins with Hill singing the opening lyrics, "I was born by the river, in a little tent, oh and just like the river, I've been running ever since." Her voice is strong and emotive, conveying the pain and struggle of those who have been oppressed and marginalized. The song then transitions to a rap verse by Wyclef Jean, followed by a chorus sung by Hill and Pras Michel. The lyrics of the song speak to the African American struggle for equality and justice, with lines like "It's been too hard living, but I'm afraid to die" and "There's been times that I thought I couldn't last for long, but now I think I'm able to carry on."

The enduring popularity of "A Change Is Gonna Come" lies in its timeless message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. The song was originally written by Sam Cooke in 1964, at a time when the civil rights movement was at its peak. Cooke was inspired to write the song after hearing Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind," which spoke to the same issues of racial inequality and social justice. "A Change Is Gonna Come" became an instant classic, with its stirring lyrics and Cooke's incredible voice.

Over the years, "A Change Is Gonna Come" has been covered by many other artists, including Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, and Seal. Each rendition brings something unique to the song, but the Fugees' version stands out for its powerful blend of hip-hop and soul. Hill's vocals are particularly striking, with her ability to convey both vulnerability and strength. The song's message of hope is just as relevant today as it was over 50 years ago, and it continues to inspire people around the world.

For Hill and the Fugees, "A Change Is Gonna Come" was more than just a song; it was a statement. The Fugees were known for their socially conscious lyrics and their commitment to addressing issues of injustice and inequality. Through their music, they sought to raise awareness about these issues and to inspire change. "A Change Is Gonna Come" was a perfect fit for the Fugees' style and mission, and their rendition of the song remains one of their most powerful and enduring works.

In short, "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Fugees featuring Lauryn Hill is a powerful and unforgettable rendition of a classic song. It speaks to the struggles of the African American community and the ongoing fight for equality and justice. With its emotive lyrics and soulful vocals, the song remains just as relevant today as it was when it was first written over 50 years ago.

• Release Date: 2003
• Artist: Fugees