It doesn't get more powerful than Swing Low, Sweet Chariot. There are a million versions of the spiritual, any one of which could be put on a playlist full of pain, struggle, and soul and still stand out. This version in particular is a lightning bolt of Beyonce’s most lethal weapon: her throwback voice. This track puts her in the birthplace of volumes upon volumes of American music, in the church, feet stomping, hands clapping, and energy undeniably conquering. The grit and sheer power of her voice contrasted with the response calls of the pure and smooth backup choir melody is truly one of music’s many gems to behold.
When I hear this song, I remember my own insignificance. I remember the power of pain and realize the power of art. I also dance and pretend like I am harmonizing with Beyonce, and completely lose track of my surroundings. That is the elegant transcendence of this song - a short buildup to a powerful climax that, before you are able to realize it, has completely taken control of you.
You can learn more about Beyoncé here:
About The Curator - Jake Greenstein
Jake Greenstein is a student, a rapper, a basketball lover, and an avid music fan. He loves movies, books, stand-up comedy, and would be happy to debate Jordan versus Lebron, the top five rappers dead or alive, The Beatles versus The Stones, Veganism versus the Standard American Diet, or basically anything else. Jake was born and raised in Tampa, Florida.
