Sam Cooke’s songwriting and performance of “A Change is
Gonna Come” is fitting for the Civil Rights movement, as it became an anthem of
hope and ultimate triumph. Influenced by Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind”,
Cooke strayed away from his usual pop-like tunes, and instead reverted back to
gospel in performing this piece. One would think a protest song would
incorporate shouting in order to portray strong emotions but Cooke was able to
do so smoothly. So spiritually. Yet at the same time, the listener could feel
the agony of “And I say brother help me please/ But he winds up knockin’ me” and
the hope in “There were times when I thought I couldn’t last for long/ But now I
think I’m able to carry on”; all through his voice. In addition to his amazing
vocals, the instruments utilized in this piece strengthen all the emotions and
the message within Cooke’s piece. In trying to instill hope in the listener, he
mentions multiple instances where he faced trouble; and each time, the song
reaches a crescendo by the end; sending a chilling vibe through the listener. Hence why this song was very empowering; not only in regards to Civil Rights issues
but to any issue that triggers pain and sorrow to a soul.
I definitely agree with how both the vocals and instruments work together in this song to not only relay such a strong and powerful message but, truly touch those who listen. Listeners nowadays I think when listening would imagine how life was back then when listening to this song and receive that "chilling vibe". I like how you explained in your post that Cooke was usually one who performed pop songs and so this was a very different piece than he was used to doing and that's again what made it so powerful.
ReplyDeleteGreat analysis, not many artists can accomplish everything that Cooke has done in his song. Creating a feeling of empowerment that can almost be felt by everyone is tricky when everyone is very different, but he has done it. The contrast between the thought of a protest song and the sound of his song is also very astonishing because you wouldn't think something 'so spiritual' could achieve that kind of movement. But it most definitely has.
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