Aretha Franklin, “On Our Way” | Sunday Refresh 🙏

On the 2^nd edition of Sunday Refresh (2022), we’re uplifted by Aretha Franklin performing, “On Our Way.”

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elcome to Sunday Refresh 🙏, a column that seeks to highlight inspirational songs to uplift the spirit.  These tracks that appear on Sunday Refresh may or may not be faith-based or religious; the goal is for them to make you feel better – refreshed.  So, for the 2^nd edition of Sunday Refresh 🙏 (2022), we highlight 🎵 “On Our Way” as performed by 🎙 Aretha Franklin.

First things first, let me clarify 🎙 Aretha Franklin isn’t performing lead on 🎵 “On Our Way.”  This processional – in its longer version – appears as the 15^th track on her beloved 💿 Amazing Grace: The Complete Recordings album from 1972.  “On Our Way” is performed by 🎙 Rev. James Cleveland and choir, preceding Franklin’s arrival on the set.  The lyrics are simple but moving as Cleveland and company look heavenward when their journey in life is complete.

“We are on our way

To a land of endless day [?]

We are on our way

We’re on our journey home”

When we get to glory

We will shout and tell the story

How we made it over

We’re on our journey home.”

As simple as “On Our Way” is, it’s potent; jubilant, and moving. This gospel classic has been used many times as a choral processional in the black church.  It’s a superb, spiritual way to set the tone of any service.  Sometimes, it’s those old-school records with just a few lyrics that truly set the church on fire! Worth noting, there are some incredible performances of “On Our Way” besides this exceptional one from Amazing Grace.  Check them out and be both blessed and refreshed!

Melbourne Mass Gospel Choir – 1 We’re On Our Way

JC CHOIR – WE ARE ON OUR WAY

St. James Mass Choir – We Are On Our Way/Praise The Lord

New Orleans Chapter – Gospel Music Workshop of America

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🎙 Aretha Franklin • 💿 Amazing Grace: The Complete Recordings • 🏷 Atlantic • 📅 1972
Aretha Franklin, “On Our Way”: Sunday Refresh 🙏 No. 2 (2022) [📷: Atlantic, Brent Faulkner, The Musical Hype, Zac Durant on Unsplash]

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