Go Go Tell It on the Mountain

While shepherds kept their watching
Over silent flocks by night,
Behold throughout the heavens,
There shone a holy light:
Go, Tell It On The Mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere;
Go, Tell It On The Mountain
That Jesus Christ is born.

The shepherds feared and trembled
When lo! above the earth
Rang out the angel chorus
That hailed our Saviour’s birth:
Go, Tell It On The Mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere;
Go, Tell It On The Mountain
That Jesus Christ is born.

Down in a lowly manger
Our humble Christ was born
And God send us salvation,
That blessed Christmas morn:
Go, Tell It On The Mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere;
Go, Tell It On The Mountain
That Jesus Christ is born.

When I am a seeker,
I seek both night and day;
I seek the Lord to help me,
And He shows me the way:
Go, Tell It On The Mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere;
Go, Tell It On The Mountain
That Jesus Christ is born.

He made me a watchman
Upon the city wall,
And if I am a Christian,
I am the least of all.
Go, Tell It On The Mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere;
Go, Tell It On The Mountain
That Jesus Christ is born.

“Go Tell It on the Mountain: The Origins and Timeless Appeal of a Christmas Classic”

As the holiday season approaches, one can hardly escape the joyful melodies and timeless carols that fill the air. Among these cherished songs, “Go Tell It on the Mountain” stands out as a jubilant and soul-stirring Christmas classic. In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the origins of this beloved carol, its cultural significance, and the notable recordings that have helped it endure through generations.

Origins of “Go Tell It on the Mountain”

The roots of “Go Tell It on the Mountain” can be traced back to the African American spiritual tradition. Like many spirituals, this song was passed down orally from generation to generation among enslaved African Americans in the United States during the 19th century. These spirituals served as a source of comfort, resilience, and hope during some of the darkest times in American history.

The song’s lyrics tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ and the message of salvation, urging believers to share the good news with others. This message of spreading the gospel aligns with the Christian faith’s emphasis on evangelism and the importance of sharing the story of Jesus’ birth.

Cultural Significance

“Go Tell It on the Mountain” holds a special place in the Christmas music canon due to its historical and cultural significance. It not only celebrates the birth of Jesus but also symbolizes the enduring spirit and resilience of a community that endured centuries of oppression. As African Americans sang this spiritual during the Christmas season, they found solace in its message of hope, freedom, and deliverance.

The song’s title is also a call to action, urging individuals to proclaim the good news from the mountaintops. In a broader sense, it encourages believers to share their faith and the message of love and salvation with the world, making it a powerful anthem for Christians during the holiday season.

Notable Recordings

Over the years, “Go Tell It on the Mountain” has been recorded by countless artists across various genres, solidifying its place as a Christmas standard. Some of the most notable recordings include:

Mahalia Jackson (1956): The Queen of Gospel’s rendition is both powerful and soul-stirring, capturing the song’s spiritual essence.
Simon & Garfunkel (1964): In their album “Wednesday Morning, 3 A.M.,” the folk duo gave the song a folk-rock twist, introducing it to a new generation.
James Taylor (2004): Known for his soothing voice, James Taylor’s version adds a touch of folk and pop to this timeless carol.
Pentatonix (2016): This a cappella group’s rendition showcases their incredible vocal harmonies and modernizes the song for contemporary listeners.

“Go Tell It on the Mountain” is more than just a Christmas carol; it’s a testament to the enduring power of music to convey faith, hope, and resilience. Its origins in the African American spiritual tradition, coupled with its rich history and meaningful lyrics, continue to make it a cherished part of the holiday season for people of all backgrounds.

As you gather with loved ones this Christmas, take a moment to reflect on the history and message of this timeless song. Whether you hear it in a traditional church setting, a contemporary concert, or a heartwarming family gathering, let “Go Tell It on the Mountain” remind you of the enduring power of faith and the importance of sharing the message of love and salvation with the world.