Presentation Protest Song

Protest song

A change is gonna come

INDEX

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Biography

The song

The lyrics

Sam Cooke

Sam Cooke, born on January 22, 1931, in Mississippi, was an American singer, songwriter, and activist. He began his career with the group "The Soul Stirrers" before achieving solo success. His influence on 1950s and 1960s soul and R&B is undeniable. Cooke also played a significant role in the civil rights movement. His iconic song "A Change Is Gonna Come," released in 1964, reflects his commitment. Unfortunately, Cooke passed away at the age of 33 in 1964, but his impact on music and society endures.

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Sam cooke

A protest song

The song was released at a pivotal moment in U.S. history, reflecting the broader context of the civil rights movement and the fight against racial inequality. It resonated with the experiences of African Americans, capturing both their hopes for change and the harsh realities of discrimination.

A change is gonna come

Sam cooke

1st verse + chorus

I was born by the river In a little tent Oh, and just like the river, I've been running Ever since It's been a long A long time coming, but I know A change gon' come Oh yes, it will

The first verse talks about the artist's challenges, being "born by the river," symbolizing the starting point of life and the ongoing struggles faced as an African American. The aquatic metaphors suggest a continuous quest for something better. The chorus, with the iconic line "It's been a long time coming, but I know a change is gonna come," expresses hope despite persistent struggles. The repetition of the theme of change anticipates a positive transformation.

2nd verse + chorus

It's been too hard living But I'm afraid to die 'Cause I don't know what's up there Beyond the sky It's been a long A long time coming, but I know A change gon' come Oh yes, it will

In the second verse Cooke expresses the burden of life, particularly as an African American man facing social and racial challenges. The fear of death and the uncertainty of what lies beyond are palpable in the lyrics, but despite this, he maintains a sense of optimism. The repetition of the idea that "A change gon' come" emphasizes a prolonged expectation for a better future. It is a testament to patience and perseverance in the face of difficulties.

3rd verse + chorus

I go to the movie And I go downtown And somebody keep telling me "Don't hang around" It's been a long A long time coming, but I know A change gon' come Oh yes, it will

The third verse directly addresses experiences of discrimination and despair, illustrating the harsh realities of the time. Lines like "I go to the movie, and I go downtown / Somebody keep telling me don't hang around" highlight racial restrictions and segregation. The chorus repeats as a hopeful mantra, emphasizing perseverance in the face of injustices.

the bridge

Then, I go to my brother And I say, "Brother, help me, please" But he winds up knockin' me Back down on my knees, oh There been times that I thought I couldn't last for long But now, I think I'm able To carry on

The bridge intensifies the emotion with lines such as "Then, I go, oh, to my brother / And I asked him, brother / Could you help me, please?" showing the search for support within the family and community.

The last chorus

It's been a long A long time coming, but I know A change gon' come Oh yes, it will

The last chorus brings a sense of conclusion and positive anticipation, reinforcing the idea that despite trials, an inevitable change will occur.

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