About the song
“Spirit in the Sky” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a song with a rich history, unexpected influences, and a lasting impact on popular culture. Released in 1969 by American singer-songwriter Norman Greenbaum, the song became a global phenomenon, topping charts and defying expectations.
Greenbaum, himself Jewish, drew inspiration from a gospel song he saw on television. With surprising ease, he penned the lyrics in just 15 minutes. The song’s religious references, particularly the line “I got a friend in Jesus,” sparked debate among some Christians who felt it conflicted with traditional views on sin. Greenbaum, however, approached the song from a place of optimism and faith, not adhering to any specific religious doctrine.
The initial recording journey was one of experimentation. Greenbaum explored acoustic and folk versions before settling on a unique blend of genres. Producer Erik Jacobsen assembled a talented group of session musicians, and Greenbaum’s distorted electric guitar became the song’s signature sound. The addition of gospel hand percussion and backing vocals by the Stovall Sisters further solidified the song’s powerful and spiritual atmosphere.
Despite its length and unconventional sound, “Spirit in the Sky” became a runaway success. Reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts internationally, the song transcended genres and defied categorization. It was a surprising hit for Reprise Records, becoming their best-selling single at the time. Even John Lennon, a musical icon, expressed his appreciation for the song.
The song’s influence extended beyond the music industry. Cover versions by Doctor and the Medics and Gareth Gates achieved chart success in the UK, while the original found its way into numerous films and commercials. “Spirit in the Sky” even became a favorite among funeral directors, a testament to its ability to evoke both joy and a sense of hope for the afterlife.
Greenbaum’s later musical endeavors were not as commercially successful, but “Spirit in the Sky” remains a timeless classic. It’s a song that continues to resonate with listeners, a testament to its infectious energy, spiritual undertones, and captivating sound. The story of “Spirit in the Sky” is a reminder that inspiration can strike from anywhere, and a single song can achieve enduring success by defying expectations and embracing originality.
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Lyrics
When I die and they lay me to rest
Gonna go to the place that’s the best
When I lay me down to die
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky (spirit in the sky)
That’s where I’m gonna go when I die (when I die)
When I die and they lay me to rest
I’m gonna go to the place that’s the best
Prepare yourself you know it’s a must
Gotta have a friend in Jesus
So you know that when you die
He’s gonna recommend you
To the spirit in the sky (spirit in the sky)
Oh he’ll recommend you to the spirit in the sky
That’s where you’re gonna go when you die (when you die)
When you die and they lay you to rest
You’re gonna go to the place that’s the best
Never been a sinner, I never sinned
I got a friend in Jesus
So you know that when I die
He’s gonna set me up
with the spirit in the sky
Oh set me up with the spirit in the sky (spirit in the sky)
That’s where I’m gonna go when I die (when I die)
When I die and they lay me to rest
I’m gonna go to the place that’s the best
Go to the place that’s the best