The Impressions - People Get Ready (1965)

Formed in 1958 as a doo-wop group, The Roosters, this band eventually evolved into doing more gospel, soul, and R&B music as the years progressed. Their hit songs through the ‘60s served as anthems for the Civil Rights Movement in America. In 1965, their best known song, heard below, was released and would go on to be considered one of the top songs of all time.

This is that song. For as many artists on this site that cannot be summed up in one paragraph, this song cannot be summed up in one either. It has been covered by Alicia Keys, Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, The Doors, John Denver, Phil Collins, Prince, Rod Stewart, Seal, U2, and many, many others, each with their own unique story. With vocals like this, you don’t need to be religious to enjoy this gospel and soulful song.



The Impressions - People Get Ready (1965)

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Lyrics:

People get ready
There's a train a-comin'
You don't need no baggage
You just get on board
All you need is faith
To hear the diesels hummin'
Don't need no ticket
You just thank the Lord

So, people get ready
For the train to Jordan
Picking up passengers
Coast to coast
Faith is the key
Open the doors and board them
There's hope for all
Among those loved the most

There ain't no room
For the hopeless sinner
Who would hurt all mankind
Just to save his own (believe me now)
Have pity on those
Whose chances grow thinner
For, there’s no hiding place
Against the kingdom’s throne

So people get ready
There's a train a-comin'
You don't need no baggage
You just get on board
All you need is faith
To hear the diesels hummin'
Don't need no ticket
You just thank the Lord