One of the most famous spirituals composed by African Americans, Wade in the Water stands out for its captivating music and deep themes. It was created in the 1800s during the period of enslavement in what is now the southern United States. Although the author is unknown, the song is a testament to the creativity and imagination of enslaved people. It contains important biblical references, particularly those concerning water’s ability to heal and grant freedom.
Moreover, it was more than a religious song; it served as a coded message for the oppressed people trying to navigate their path to freedom via the Underground Railroad. There was a method employed by the fugitives which permitted them to mask their scent to avoid detection by dogs. They were advised to use water to cover their scent. In time, gospel and blues artists like Mahalia Jackson, The Fisk Jubilee Singers, and more recently, Eva Cassidy, have recorded and altered it. The song remains cherished among African Americans and advocates of spiritual music around the world for what it symbolizes: faith, emancipation, and hope.
Wade in The Water Lyrics
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Wade in the Water |
| Song Type | African American Spiritual / Gospel |
| Writer(s) | Unknown (Traditional/Folk Origins) |
| Origin Era | Mid-19th Century (c. 1860s) |
| Purpose | Spiritual Encouragement, Coded Escape Message |
| Key Themes | Water, Freedom, Divine Protection, Exodus Narrative |
| Famous Performers | Mahalia Jackson, Fisk Jubilee Singers, Eva Cassidy |
| Associated Movements | Underground Railroad, Civil Rights Movement |
| Modern Relevance | Continues in worship, historical remembrance, music |
Wade in the water
Wade in the water
Wade in the water, children
God is gonna trouble these waters
See that band all dressed in white
God is gonna trouble these waters
It look like a band of the Israelites
God is gonna trouble these waters
See that band all dressed in red
God is gonna trouble these waters
Look like a band that Moses led
God is gonna trouble these waters
My Lord delivered Daniel well
Daniel well, Daniel well
Didn’t my Lord deliver Daniel well
Then why not every man?
Man went down to the river
Man went down to the river, Lord
Man went down to the river
Went down there for to pray
Man went down to the river
Man went down to the river, Lord
Man went down to the river
To wash his sins all away
Washed all day, washed all night
Washed till his hands were sore
Washed all day, washed all night
Till he couldn’t wash a-no more
(Hey)
Man went down to the river
Man went down to the river, Lord
Man went down to the river
Went down there for to pray
Man went down to the river
Man went down to the river, Lord
Man went down to the river
Washed his sins all away
Wade in the water
Wade in the water, children
Wade in the water
God is gonna trouble these waters
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