About the song
## A Timeless Anthem: “People Got To Be Free” by The Rascals
**A Call for Equality and Unity**
Released in 1967 at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, “People Got To Be Free” by The Rascals emerged as a powerful anthem of hope and resilience. This iconic song, penned by Felix Cavaliere and Eddie Brigati, resonated deeply with a generation yearning for social justice and equality.
The Rascals, a quartet known for their soulful blend of rock and R&B, delivered a performance that captured the spirit of the times. Their harmonies, driven by Cavaliere’s soulful vocals and Brigati’s rhythmic guitar playing, created a sense of urgency and determination. The song’s uplifting melody and infectious groove made it a radio hit, propelling the Rascals to stardom.
At its core, “People Got To Be Free” is a plea for understanding, compassion, and unity. The lyrics express a profound desire for a world free from prejudice, discrimination, and violence. The refrain, “People got to be free, yeah, people got to be free,” serves as a rallying cry, inspiring listeners to fight for their rights and stand up against injustice.
The song’s message was particularly relevant during the turbulent era of the 1960s. The Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, with protests and demonstrations taking place across the United States. “People Got To Be Free” provided a soundtrack for these struggles, offering hope and encouragement to those fighting for equality.
Beyond its historical significance, “People Got To Be Free” remains a timeless piece of music. Its message of freedom, love, and unity continues to resonate with audiences today. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its power and relevance.
As you listen to “People Got To Be Free,” take a moment to appreciate the artistry and social impact of The Rascals. This iconic song serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and standing up for what is right.
Video
Lyrics
All the world over, so easy to see
People everywhere just wanna be free
Listen, please listen, that’s the way it should be
There’s peace in the valley, people got to be free
You should see
What a lovely, lovely world this’d be
Everyone learned to live together, ah hah
Seems to me
Such an easy easy thing it should be
Why can’t you and me learn to love one another?
All the world over, so easy to see
People everywhere just wanna be free (wanna be free)
I can’t understand it, so simple to me
People everywhere just got to be free
If there’s a man
Who is down and needs a helpin’ hand
All it takes is you to understand and
To pull him through, ah hah
Seems to me
We got to solve it individually, ah ah
And I’ll do unto you what you do to me
Said, no
Hear the shoutin’ from the mountains on out to the sea
No two ways about it, people have to be free (they gotta be free)
Ask me my opinion, my opinion will be
Natural situation for a man to be free
Get right on board now, huh, huh
Yeah oh, what a feelin’s just come over me
Love can move a mountain, make a blind man see
Everybody sing it now come on let’s go see
Peace in the valley now, we all can be free
See that train over there?
Now that’s the train of freedom
It’s about to ‘rrive any minute, now
You know it’s been’a long, long overdue
Look out ’cause it’s a’comin’ right on through
Ha, ha, yeah, ha, ha, yeah