Go Tell It on the Mountain: Spirited Christmas Carol
Lyrics of Go Tell It on the MountainGo, tell it on the mountain, While shepherds kept their watching The shepherds feared and trembled Down in a lowly manger Go, tell it on the mountain, |
Overview
Christmas carols bring joy and warmth to the holiday season, uniting people through music and tradition. Among the most beloved Christmas songs, "Go Tell It on the Mountain" stands out with its powerful spiritual message and deep historical significance. This classic Christmas hymn has been sung for generations, inspiring believers with its uplifting lyrics and rich cultural heritage. In this article by Academic Block, we will explore the history, meaning, lyrics, and significance of "Go Tell It on the Mountain." We will also discuss its influence on gospel music, notable renditions, and why it remains a favorite during Christmas celebrations worldwide.
Origins of Go Tell It on the Mountain Song
The origins of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" trace back to African American spirituals from the 19th century. It was first compiled by John Wesley Work Jr., an African American scholar and musicologist, who played a crucial role in preserving Negro spirituals. This Christmas carol emerged from the oral traditions of enslaved African Americans, who used songs to express their faith and hope.
As an essential part of the African American musical heritage, this hymn reflects themes of freedom, faith, and salvation. The lyrics tell the story of Jesus Christ's birth, emphasizing the importance of spreading the good news. Over the years, "Go Tell It on the Mountain" has become a staple in Christmas church services and holiday concerts.
Meaning and Lyrics of Go Tell It on the Mountain
The central message of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" revolves around proclaiming the birth of Jesus Christ to the world. The phrase "Go tell it on the mountain" symbolizes the call to share the gospel message with everyone.
Here are the traditional lyrics of this Christmas hymn:
(i) Chorus:
Go, tell it on the mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere;
Go, tell it on the mountain,
That Jesus Christ is born.
(ii) Verse 1:
While shepherds kept their watching
O’er silent flocks by night,
Behold throughout the heavens
There shone a holy light.
The Go Tell It on the Mountain lyrics narrate the Nativity story, particularly the announcement of Jesus' birth to the shepherds, a key event in the Christmas story. This emphasizes that Christmas is a time of celebration, faith, and spreading joy.
The Biblical References and Symbolism in Go Tell It on the Mountain Song
The Christmas carol "Go Tell It on the Mountain" carries profound biblical inspiration and religious symbolism, making it a powerful Christmas hymn. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Joyful Proclamation: The song reflects the shepherds' excitement in sharing the good news, emphasizing the urgency of spreading Christ's message.
Sacred Spaces: The song echoes biblical themes where divine messages are revealed, urging believers to share their faith and joy.
This Christmas song remains a timeless gospel hymn, inspiring worshippers to celebrate and proclaim the Nativity story with devotion.
The Role of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" in Gospel Music
Although "Go Tell It on the Mountain" originated as a Christmas song, it has had a significant influence on gospel music. Many renowned gospel artists have performed and recorded this spiritual hymn, blending it with different musical styles.
The song’s call to "go tell" aligns with the mission of gospel music, which aims to share the message of Christianity through melody. It has been performed in churches and concerts, inspiring worshippers across generations.
Artist who gave different Versions of Christmas Song Go Tell It on the Mountain
Over the years, Go Tell It on the Mountain hymn has been recorded by numerous artists, showcasing its versatility across different genres. Below are some of the most famous renditions of this beloved Christmas carol:
Each version of Go Tell It on the Mountain hymn continues to resonate, making it a timeless part of Christmas music traditions.
Thematic Resonance: "Go Tell It on the Mountain" Beyond Christmas
(i) Social and Historical Context of Go Tell It on the Mountain
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Civil Rights Movement : In the 1950s and 1960s, "Go Tell It on the Mountain" became an anthem of hope and liberation, symbolizing the fight for freedom and equality during the African American Civil Rights Movement.
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Legacy of Resilience : The carol embodies the spirit of resilience and faith, echoing the struggles and perseverance of marginalized communities.
(ii) Universal Themes of Liberation in Go Tell It on the Mountain
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Personal Redemption : Beyond being a Christmas carol, the song reflects themes of spiritual renewal, self-discovery, and redemption.
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Freedom and Liberation : Inspired by the biblical shepherds, the hymn conveys a universal message of freedom, justice, and faith, resonating in various historical and social contexts.
This timeless gospel song continues to inspire generations, making "Go Tell It on the Mountain" more than just a Christmas hymn, but a powerful symbol of hope and faith.
Why "Go Tell It on the Mountain" Is a Christmas Favorite
Many factors contribute to the lasting popularity of "Go Tell It on the Mountain":
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Spiritual Significance : The song conveys the Christmas message of spreading Jesus' birth and salvation.
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Uplifting Melody : The powerful chorus encourages enthusiastic participation, making it ideal for Christmas services and caroling.
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Cultural Impact : It bridges the gap between spiritual hymns and contemporary music.
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Inspirational Lyrics : The song reminds believers of their role in sharing the gospel.
Whether sung in churches, homes, or public gatherings, "Go Tell It on the Mountain" continues to inspire millions around the world.
How to Incorporate "Go Tell It on the Mountain" Into Your Christmas Celebrations
If you want to make "Go Tell It on the Mountain" a part of your Christmas traditions, here are some ideas:
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Church Choir Performance : Have your church choir sing this hymn during a Christmas Eve service.
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Christmas Caroling : Include this song in your caroling list to spread holiday cheer.
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Family Worship : Sing it with your family while reading the Nativity story.
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School or Community Events : Perform it at a holiday concert or community gathering.
By incorporating this Christmas carol into your celebrations, you can keep its message alive for future generations.
Final Words
"Go Tell It on the Mountain" is more than just a Christmas song—it is a call to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world. Rooted in the traditions of African American spirituals, this timeless Christmas hymn continues to uplift hearts and inspire faith. With its profound lyrics, joyful melody, and deep spiritual meaning, "Go Tell It on the Mountain" remains a cherished part of the Christmas season. So, this Christmas, let us all "go tell it on the mountain" and celebrate the true meaning of the holiday season. Hope you liked this article by Academic Block, please provide your views below in comment section which help us to improve this article. Thanks for Reading!
This Article will answer your questions like:
"Go Tell It on the Mountain" is a traditional African American spiritual dating back to the 19th century. It originated among enslaved people in the United States as a song of hope and resilience. The song was later compiled by John Wesley Work Jr., a scholar and collector of spirituals, in the early 20th century. This Christmas hymn became widely known for its joyous proclamation of Jesus Christ’s birth and has remained a staple in holiday celebrations.
Although "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is a traditional spiritual song, it was first documented and arranged by John Wesley Work Jr. in the early 1900s. Work, an African American composer and musicologist, played a key role in preserving and publishing spirituals that were passed down orally among enslaved communities. His arrangement helped popularize the hymn, making it one of the most beloved Christmas gospel songs worldwide.
The song "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is inspired by Luke 2:8-14, where the angel of the Lord announces the birth of Jesus Christ to the shepherds in the fields. The hymn’s theme of spreading the good news reflects the biblical message of proclaiming the arrival of the Messiah, emphasizing the joy and salvation brought by His birth.
Yes, "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is considered both a spiritual and a gospel song. Originating as an African American spiritual, it has been widely performed in gospel and Christian music traditions. Many artists, including Mahalia Jackson, Aretha Franklin, and Dolly Parton, have recorded gospel renditions of this beloved Christmas hymn.
Many artists have performed "Go Tell It on the Mountain", including Mahalia Jackson, Peter, Paul and Mary, Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin, Pentatonix, and Simon & Garfunkel. The song's widespread appeal has led to recordings in various styles, from traditional gospel to folk and contemporary Christmas music.
Yes, "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is a Christmas classic and a widely recognized spiritual hymn. Its message of spreading the joyful news of Jesus’ birth has made it a timeless part of Christian worship, especially during the Christmas season.
The moral of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is the importance of sharing the good news of faith, hope, and salvation. It encourages believers to proclaim the birth of Jesus Christ with joy and conviction, emphasizing the themes of spiritual awakening and redemption.
The ironic voice in "Go Tell It on the Mountain" can be interpreted through its historical context. Originally sung by enslaved people, the call to spread joy and good news contrasts with the harsh reality they faced, making it both a celebration of faith and a subtle cry for freedom.
The "best" version of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is subjective, but some of the most renowned renditions include those by Mahalia Jackson, Peter, Paul and Mary, Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin, and Pentatonix. A modern lo-fi version was released by Forrest Frank in 2023, bringing a fresh take on the classic.
The first verse of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is:
"Go, tell it on the mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere,
Go, tell it on the mountain,
That Jesus Christ is born!"
This classic Christmas spiritual encourages believers to spread the message of Jesus’ birth, aligning with Luke 2:8-14, where angels announce the Messiah’s arrival to shepherds.
Although "Go Tell It on the Mountain" originated as an African American spiritual, it was first transcribed and arranged by John Wesley Work Jr. in the early 1900s. He played a key role in preserving oral spiritual traditions, ensuring the hymn became a recognized Christmas carol worldwide.
The original version of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" was an oral spiritual song, sung by enslaved African Americans before it was formally documented. Earlier renditions were simpler and rhythmic, passed down through call-and-response singing. John Wesley Work Jr. arranged the song in written form, refining it into the version recognized today.
The song celebrates Jesus' birth by emphasizing the angelic proclamation of the Messiah’s arrival in Luke 2:8-14. It calls believers to spread the joyous news, echoing the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), where Christ instructs followers to share His message globally.
The song is primarily based on Luke 2:8-14, where angels announce Jesus' birth to shepherds. It also aligns with Isaiah 52:7, which emphasizes spreading the gospel of peace and salvation. These verses highlight the song’s message of faith and evangelism.
You can listen to Mahalia Jackson's version of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Amazon Music. Her recording, released in the 1950s, remains one of the most revered renditions, blending gospel power with spiritual depth.
The song explores themes of joy, evangelism, salvation, and faith. It reflects the Christian mission of spreading the gospel, aligns with African American spiritual traditions, and symbolizes hope and resilience despite adversity.
You can watch Zach Williams' version of "Go Tell It on the Mountain" on YouTube, Apple Music, and Vevo. His modern take on the classic hymn infuses gospel with contemporary Christian music, making it a popular choice for worship.
"Go Tell It on the Mountain" holds profound significance in African American spiritual traditions, symbolizing hope, freedom, and faith. Originally sung by enslaved communities, the song carried a dual meaning—celebrating Jesus' birth while also expressing longing for liberation. It remains an enduring gospel anthem, highlighting the resilience and spiritual strength of the Black church.
Which Movie or Series Used this Carol?
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965): While “A Boy Named Charlie Brown” (1969) features the carol, it’s worth noting that the Peanuts gang also sings “Go Tell It on the Mountain” in the earlier “A Charlie Brown Christmas” special.
The Preacher’s Wife (1996): In this film starring Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington, “Go Tell It on the Mountain” is part of the soundtrack, contributing to the movie’s Christmas theme.
Soul Food (1997): This family drama film features the carol during a Christmas scene, adding a festive touch to the holiday-themed moment.
The Wire (TV Series, Season 1, Episode 3 – “The Buys,” 2002): “Go Tell It on the Mountain” is featured in this episode of the acclaimed television series “The Wire,” contributing to the show’s attention to cultural and musical details.
Friday Night Lights (TV Series, Season 2, Episode 15): The carol is used in this episode of the popular TV series “Friday Night Lights,” enhancing the Christmas atmosphere.
Empire (TV Series, Season 1, Episode 9 – “Unto the Breach,” 2015): “Go Tell It on the Mountain” is performed in this episode of the musical drama series “Empire,” aligning with the show’s emphasis on music and cultural references.
Facts on the Go Tell It on the Mountain Christmas carol
Origin and History: The exact origins of “Go Tell It on the Mountain” are not precisely known, but it is widely recognized as a traditional African American spiritual. The song is believed to have roots in the African American folk tradition and may have originated during the period of slavery in the United States.
Spiritual Tradition: The song is often classified as an African American spiritual, a genre of music that emerged among African Americans during slavery. Spirituals were often used as a means of expressing faith, hope, and resistance.
Lyric Evolution: Over the years, the lyrics of “Go Tell It on the Mountain” have undergone various adaptations and alterations, resulting in different versions of the song.
Recording History: The carol has been recorded by numerous artists in various genres, including gospel, folk, blues, and pop. Notable artists who have recorded the song include Mahalia Jackson, Simon & Garfunkel, and James Taylor.
Biblical Inspiration: The lyrics of the carol draw inspiration from the biblical narrative of the shepherds who were informed of the birth of Jesus by angels. This story is found in the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament.
Civil Rights Movement: During the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s, “Go Tell It on the Mountain” became associated with the struggle for civil rights and was sung as a symbol of hope and freedom.
Inclusion in Worship: The carol is commonly sung in churches during the Christmas season as part of worship services and Christmas celebrations.
Cultural Impact: “Go Tell It on the Mountain” has become a staple in Christmas music, and its joyful message of proclaiming the good news resonates with audiences of diverse backgrounds.
Adaptations in Popular Culture: The song has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, contributing to its enduring popularity and cultural impact.
Choral Arrangements: The carol is often performed by choirs, and its uplifting melody and message make it a favorite in choral arrangements for Christmas concerts and events.