Morgan State University Choir, “The Storm Is Passing Over”

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In the 44th edition of Music Lifts, we’re uplifted by Morgan State University Choir performing, “The Storm Is Passing Over,” among others performing the hymn.

Welcome to Music Lifts , a column that seeks to highlight songs that encourage, inspire, and uplift the spirit; songs that exude fortitude, positivity, and resolve, even in the face of adversity. Featured songs aren’t genre-specific; songs may or may not be faith-based. The goal is for these songs to make you feel better – be LIFTED to new heights! So, for the 44th edition of Music Lifts (2022), we highlight “The Storm Is Passing Over” as performed by Morgan State University Choir.

“Take courage my soul and let us journey on,” commences the glorious hymn, “The Storm Is Passing Over”. The Charles A. Tindley (1851 – 1933) text continues, “Tho’ the night is dark, and I am far from home.” My, my, my! Many choirs have praised God with this moving song. In the African American Heritage Hymnal, the scripture that is excerpted underneath the title is from Jonah 1:15-16: …and the sea ceased from its raging. Then the men feared the LORD even more. Wow! Despite the fact that the protagonist is “far from home,” there is ONE who safely leads and ceases the storm – all storms for that matter ! “Thanks be to God, the morning light appears,” the hymn continues, with the titular lyrics following – “The storm is passing over, the storm is passing over, the storm is passing over, Hallelu.”

Regardless of who performs “The Storm Is Passing Over”, the big takeaway is about the goodness, mercifulness, and omniscience of God. Even when things seem their most bleak, and the storm threatens to consume, He has the wonder working power to make it cease! HALLELU, indeed! There are many awesome versions of this classic. James Abbington and Morgan State University Choir do a marvelous job of performing the hymn on their 2005 album, 49 Hidden Treasures from African American Heritage Hymnal. Of course, in the African American Heritage Hymnal, the tune is attributed to the short-lived but gifted and influential gospel musician, Donald Vails (1948 – 1997). Also, via YouTube, there’s a soul-stirring, must-hear interpretation courtesy of the Detroit Mass Choir that is sure to lift your spirits!