"I've Been in the Storm So Long" (Original Vocal and Piano Arrangement of a Negro Spiritual), Vibes Week 12

[deeanndmathews]

Photo by the author, Deeann D. Mathews, April 3, 2024

One of my favorite Negro Spirituals, although one of the least performed, is "I've Been in the Storm So Long," and when we consider that chattel slavery had to be endured by 13 generations of humans, any one of those who were adults (the 13th generation was still children) before June 19, 1865 might have had this be their experience. However, as we are between Memorial Day and Juneteenth, the day that suffering ended for my ancestors, I consider this song the backdrop to the light of freedom ... we cannot fully appreciate how wonderful freedom is without understanding what not having it meant to so many. The theme is pain. I understand the history of African Americans, so I also, from that great well of history, understand the assignment. The sorrow, and the storm, are here.

There is, of course, a happy ending: all failed in oppression, because I am here to tell the story, reading, writing, singing, and playing the piano, on Hive, IN FREEDOM! The light DID BREAK, at last!

#sbi-skip

Comments

[justclickindiva]

I know this song well, and you did it justice. Nicely done. Your photo paired well with the theme as the clouds lingered overhead.

Thanks for sharing. Take care.
!LADY

[deeanndmathews]

Thank you kindly; I know that you are knowledgeable, and that means much to me!

[justclickindiva]

You're welcome. I love a heartfelt song. Take care.

[ladytoken]

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[blessworld]

Wow, you are good, you really prove to us all that you are a talented singer.

[deeanndmathews]

Thank you so much for listening!

[ibbtammy]

Now that was a stellar performance my !Lady👏👏👏

[deeanndmathews]

Thank you so much!

[nikki1989]

Good

[deeanndmathews]

Thank you so much for listening!

[verbal-d]

@deeanndmathews

I wanted to write sooner but life happened
I found this piece to be hauntingly beautiful
Chaotic and filled with heartache, demise and dreadfulness
but bold, truthful and refreshing knowing that you
Are able to share such rich and raw history in this musical form of expression
You sung very well, I appreciate the depth and delivery of your vocals and the passion and carefulness you play through the piano
You hit the theme spot on and you are a blessing to our community

-@Verbal-D Gospel Musician/Rapper/Singer/Songwriter & Official Vibes Judge

[deeanndmathews]

Thank you so much ... indeed you heard and felt what I sought to communicate!