Sister Rosetta Tharpe – Didn’t it rain, children

About the song

“Sister Rosetta Tharpe – Didn’t It Rain, Children”

“Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s rendition of ‘Didn’t It Rain, Children’ is a timeless classic that beautifully encapsulates the spirit and soul of gospel music. Born Rosetta Nubin in Cotton Plant, Arkansas, in 1915, Sister Rosetta Tharpe was a trailblazer whose profound impact on both gospel and secular music is undeniable. Often hailed as the ‘Godmother of Rock and Roll,’ Tharpe’s innovative guitar techniques and passionate performances paved the way for many future musicians.

‘Didn’t It Rain’ is one of her most celebrated songs, showcasing her powerful voice and exceptional guitar playing. The song itself is a traditional African American spiritual, which Tharpe revitalized with her unique style, blending gospel fervor with rhythmic energy that would later influence the rock and roll genre.

Recorded in 1948, ‘Didn’t It Rain’ became one of Tharpe’s standout tracks, featuring in her album ‘Gospel Train’. The album was a significant release, reflecting her deep-rooted gospel influences while also highlighting her versatility as an artist who could seamlessly transition between sacred and secular music.

Throughout her career, Sister Rosetta Tharpe achieved considerable success, not only within gospel circles but also in mainstream music. Her groundbreaking performances, including a famous 1938 concert at the Cotton Club and numerous appearances in Carnegie Hall, solidified her status as a musical pioneer. ‘Didn’t It Rain’ itself became a cornerstone of her repertoire, performed with such passion that it resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.

In terms of chart success, while specific rankings of her singles weren’t always documented in the way they are today, Tharpe’s influence was widespread, garnering respect and admiration across both the gospel and burgeoning rock and roll communities. Her music laid the groundwork for future artists, and her legacy continues to be celebrated by musicians and fans alike.

‘Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s ‘Didn’t It Rain, Children’ remains a testament to her extraordinary talent and enduring impact on music history. Her ability to convey deep emotion and spiritual fervor through her music ensures that this classic song will continue to inspire and uplift listeners for generations to come.”

Video

Lyrics

Didn’t it rain children
Talk about rain oh my Lord
Didn’t it fall didn’t it fall
Didn’t it fall my Lord didn’t it rain

Didn’t it rain children
Talk about rain oh my Lord
Didn’t it fall didn’t it fall
Didn’t it fll my Lord didn’t it rain

Oh it rained forty days
And it rained forty nights
There was no land no where in sight
God send the angel to spread the news
He haste his wings and away he flew
To the East to the West
To the North to the South
All day all night how it rained how it rained

Didn’t it rain children
Talk about rain oh my Lord
Didn’t it fall didn’t it fall
Didn’t it fall my Lord didn’t it rain

Some at the window some at the door
Some said Noah can’t you take a little more
No no said Noah no no my friends
The nature got to keep you can’t get in
I told you I told you a long time ago
You wouldn’t hear me you disobey me
Lord send the angel a warning to you
It began to rain and now you are through

Well it rained forty days
Forty nights without stopping
Noah was glad
When the rain stopped dropping
Knock at the window knock at the door
Come on brother Noah
Can’t you take any more
No no my brothers you are full of sin
God has the key you can’t get in
Would you listen how it rained

Didn’t it rain children
Talk about rain oh my Lord
Didn’t it fall didn’t it fall
Didn’t it fall my Lord didn’t it rain

Didn’t it rain children
Talk about rain oh my Lord
Didn’t it fall didn’t it fall
Didn’t it fall my Lord didn’t it rain