Odetta – Oh, Freedom (1960)

“Keep On Pushing,” released in 1964 as part of Curtis Mayfield and The Impressions’ album of the same name, is a powerful anthem of hope and perseverance. Written by Mayfield, the song became a rallying cry for the civil rights movement, inspiring activists and listeners to continue striving for progress and justice. With its uplifting lyrics and soulful melody, “Keep On Pushing” remains one of Mayfield’s most iconic songs and a timeless reminder of the resilience and strength needed to overcome adversity.

About The Song

• Lyrics Interpretation: The lyrics of “Keep On Pushing” express a sense of determination and optimism in the face of hardship. Mayfield’s lines, “I’ve got to keep on pushing / I can’t stop now,” convey the importance of perseverance and self-belief, while the refrain, “Look a little higher,” encourages people to stay hopeful and focused on their goals. The song’s message is both personal and universal, speaking to anyone striving to achieve a better future and to overcome obstacles in their path.
• Cultural Impact: “Keep On Pushing” became a defining anthem for the civil rights movement in the 1960s. Its message of perseverance and hope resonated deeply with African Americans and other marginalized communities fighting for equality and justice. The song was often sung at civil rights rallies and marches, including the historic March on Washington in 1963. It became a symbol of resilience and strength, capturing the spirit of a movement determined to bring about social change.
• Historical Context: Released at a time of significant social and political upheaval in the United States, “Keep On Pushing” provided a soundtrack for the struggle for civil rights. The song’s themes of persistence and progress reflected the courage of activists who faced violence, discrimination, and resistance in their fight for equality. Curtis Mayfield, known for his socially conscious lyrics, used the song to articulate the frustrations and hopes of the era, making it a powerful piece of music that spoke to the times.
• Songwriting Inspiration: Curtis Mayfield wrote “Keep On Pushing” as an encouragement to those fighting for social justice. His upbringing in Chicago and his experiences witnessing inequality and systemic racism informed his songwriting, giving him a unique voice to speak on these issues. Mayfield’s faith in the power of music to inspire and motivate led him to create songs that not only entertained but also carried a deeper, transformative message.
• Song Legacy: “Keep On Pushing” remains one of Curtis Mayfield’s most celebrated songs, frequently included in lists of the greatest soul songs of all time. Its influence extends far beyond the civil rights era, as its message of hope and perseverance continues to resonate with audiences facing various challenges. The song has been covered by numerous artists and featured in films and documentaries about the struggle for social justice, ensuring its place as a timeless anthem of resilience and determination.

“Keep On Pushing” is more than just a song—it’s a powerful statement of strength, hope, and resilience. Curtis Mayfield’s uplifting lyrics and soulful delivery make it a timeless anthem for those fighting for progress and equality, inspiring generations to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity.

Video

Lyric

[Oh Freedom}

Oh freedom, oh freedom, oh freedom over me
And before I’d be a slave I’d be buried in my grave
And go home to my Lord and be free

No more mourning, no more mourning, no more mourning over me
And before I’d be a slave I’d be buried in my grave
And go home to my Lord and be free

Oh freedom, oh freedom, oh freedom over me
And before I’d be a slave I’d be buried in my grave
And go home to my Lord and be free

[Come and Go with Me]

Come, go with me to that land
Come, go with me to that land
Go with me to that land
Where I’m bound

Come, go with me to that land
Come, go with me to that land
Go with me to that land
Where I’m bound

There’s no kneeling in that land
There’s no kneeling in that land
No kneeling in that land
Where I’m bound

There’s no kneeling in that land
There’s no kneeling in that land
No kneeling in that land
Where I’m bound

Come and go with me to that land
Come and go with me to that land
Go with me to that land
Where I’m bound

Come and go with me to that land
Come and go with me to that land
Go with me to that land
Where I’m bound

[I’m on My Way]

I’m on my way
And I won’t turn back
I’m on my way
And I won’t turn back
I’m on my way
And I won’t turn back
I’m on my way
Hey, I’m on my way

Gonna ask my brother
Want to come with me?
Gonna ask my brother
Won’t you come with me?
I’m gonna ask my brother
Won’t you come with me?
I’m on my way
Hey, I’m on my way

Gonna ask my Captain
Won’t you let me go?
Ask my Captain
Won’t you let me go?
I’m gonna ask my Captain
Won’t you let me go?
I’m on my way
Thank God, I’m on my way

And if he says no, no, no, no
I’ll go anyhow
If he says no
Gonna go anyhow
And if he says no
Gonna go anyhow
I’m on my way
Hey God, I’m on my way

I’m on my way, I’m on my way
I won’t turn back
I’m on my way
And I won’t turn back
I’m on my way
And I won’t turn back
I’m on my way
Thank God, I’m on my way