Gospel Song – I Stood On the Banks of Jordan

Gospel Song – I Stood On the Banks of Jordan.

Rev. James Cleveland (1931-1991) was a key figure in transitioning from traditional gospel to a more contemporary gospel, incorporating more soul, pop and jazz into his compositions and performances. Rev. Cleveland tended to write music for mass choirs, and was often producing records for the various gospel choir ensembles. Between his performing, composing, conducting, and producing, Rev. Cleveland literally appeared on hundreds of recordings. He won five Grammy awards for his musical excellence. He was born in Chicago, and learned to sing by participating in the legendary Thomas Dorsey’s church choir. When young, he was driven to play the piano. His family couldn’t afford to buy a piano, so James went to work  and constructed his own piano with bits and pieces of broken pianos. He then taught himself how to play, becoming a master. Much like his mentor Thomas Dorsey, James became a legend after a long career in gospel music.

 

LYRICS – I Stood On the Banks of Jordan.

I stood on the banks of Jordan one day, to see the ship go sailing over.

I stood on the banks of Jordan, yes I did, Lord, to see the ship go by.

And when I saw it, I said, Lord, I got my ticket, please don’t leave me down here.

You took my father, you came back and got my mother, you took everything to me that was so dear.

Listen, I know she’s waiting and watching, I told her I’ll be home after while.

Those were the last words I ever told my mother.

She closed her eyes and went on to glory with a smile.

Lord, I got my ticket, I’m bound and set for glory land, 

I don’t want that old ship to leave me,

It’s the only transportation I’ve got to glory land. 

I stood on the banks of Jordan one day, to see the ship go sailing over.

I stood on the banks of Jordan, yes I did, Lord, to see the ship go by.