Three Dog Night

Lyrics

5 ContributorsA Change Is Gonna Come LyricsI was born by a river in a little tent
And just like this river
I've been running ever since
It's been a too long, too long-time a-coming
But I know a change gonna come
Oh, yes, it is

It's been too hard living
And I'm afraid to die
I don't know what's up there beyond the sky
It's been a long time a, long time a-coming
But I know, Lord I know a change gonna come, Lord
Yeah, yes

And then I went to see my brother, oh yeah
I said, "Brother, help me, please."
He turned me down
And then I went, I went to see my sweet mother
I said, "Mama, Mama I'm down on my knees."
It's been a too hard living
And I'm afraid to die
I don't know what's up there beyond the sky
It's been a long, long time a-coming
But I know, but I know a change gonna come
Oh, longSee Three Dog Night LiveGet tickets as low as $50You might also likeEmbed

Some short introduction paragraphs about the most important things about the song.

Three Dog Night, an iconic American rock band, took on the powerful and poignant song "A Change Is Gonna Come." Although initially written and performed by the legendary Sam Cooke, Three Dog Night's rendition carried its own significance during a time of social unrest and civil rights movements. This captivating song resonated with the band and their fans, sparking both admiration and criticism. With its meaningful lyrics and emotional delivery, "A Change Is Gonna Come" became a tribute to Cooke's enduring legacy and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality.

Released in 1969, "A Change Is Gonna Come" was recorded by Three Dog Night just five years after Sam Cooke wrote and released the original version. The song's message of hope and resilience in the face of racial inequality struck a chord with the band and the larger American audience. While critics debated the appropriateness of a white man, Cory Wells, singing such a significant song of the Civil Rights movement, others saw it as a tribute that transcended racial boundaries. This controversy only added to the song's impact and made it even more thought-provoking.

About A Change Is Gonna Come

"A Change Is Gonna Come" holds a special place in the annals of American music history. Written by Sam Cooke in the early 1960s, the song was a powerful response to the prevailing racial discrimination and social injustice faced by African Americans during that era. Combining heartfelt lyrics with Cooke's soulful voice, the original recording stood as a bold statement of hope and an anthem for the Civil Rights movement.

When Three Dog Night decided to cover "A Change Is Gonna Come," they recognized the song's enduring relevance. The band, known for their ability to infuse popular songs with their distinct rock sound, embraced the opportunity to reinterpret this powerful masterpiece. By taking on a song deeply rooted in the African American experience, Three Dog Night not only paid homage to Cooke but also raised important questions about race and society.

The decision to have a white band perform an iconic song of the Civil Rights movement was met with mixed reactions. Some saw it as an inappropriate appropriation of a song that represented a particular struggle and history. Others, however, viewed it as a genuine tribute that showcased the universality of the message. This controversy surrounding their version of "A Change Is Gonna Come" ignited meaningful conversations about racial equality and the collective responsibility to combat discrimination.

While Three Dog Night's rendition of "A Change Is Gonna Come" might have raised eyebrows and provoked discussion, it is essential to recognize the band's intention. By choosing to perform this song during a time when civil rights abuses persisted, they aimed to keep the conversation alive and relevant. The song served as a reminder that racial inequality was not just a problem for people of color but a societal issue that demanded widespread attention and action.

More than half a century later, the lyrics of "A Change Is Gonna Come" continue to resonate with listeners. It is a song that speaks directly to the perseverance and resilience of individuals fighting against the injustices they face. The hope embedded within each verse serves as a call to action, urging everyone to confront the ongoing challenges of racial inequality in our society.

Sam Cooke's tragic fate, losing his life shortly after the release of the original song, further underscores the gravity of the message. His untimely death highlighted the risks associated with speaking out and advocating for change. Today, it serves as a reminder that the struggle for racial equality is far from over and that we must remain vigilant in our pursuit of justice.

As we listen to Three Dog Night's rendition of "A Change Is Gonna Come," we are reminded of the interconnectedness of our shared humanity. The band's interpretation offers a different perspective and adds a layer of complexity to the conversation on racial inequality. It challenges us to look beyond the color of our skin and recognize that the fight for justice and equality belongs to all of us.

In the tumultuous times we find ourselves in today, where headlines still showcase racial discrimination and social unrest, "A Change Is Gonna Come" serves as a timeless anthem. It serves as a call for unity, understanding, and collective action. Whether sung by Sam Cooke or performed by Three Dog Night, this iconic song reverberates with the hope that change is indeed possible, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Through their rendition, Three Dog Night kept the essence of "A Change Is Gonna Come" alive, paying homage to the original while offering their unique interpretation. In doing so, they continued the conversation and reminded us that the struggle for racial equality is an ongoing journey requiring the participation of every individual.

As we listen to this powerful song, we are reminded of the immense value of documenting the journey towards social change through music. "A Change Is Gonna Come" stands as a testament to the power of music to inspire, educate, and bring people together. It serves as a timeless reminder that we can all contribute to the fight for justice and equality, regardless of our background or the color of our skin. This is a song that has transcended its time, becoming a rallying cry for generations to come.

• Release Date: June 11, 1969
• Artist: Three Dog Night