When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder - Loretta Lynn

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Loretta Lynn

About When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder

When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder is an 1893 hymn with words and music by James Milton Black. The song was inspired by the idea of The Book of Life mentioned in the Bible, and by the absence of a child in Black's Sunday school class when the attendance was taken. The idea of someone's being not in attendance in heaven haunted Black, and after visiting the child's home and calling on a doctor to attend her for pneumonia, he went home and wrote the song after not finding one on a similar topic in his hymn collection. The song's lyrics were first published in a collection titled Songs of the Soul and the song has since been translated into at least 14 languages and sung all over the world in a variety of Christian denominations. There are more than 500 versions available on such sites as Amazon, recorded by various artists such as Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Jim Nabors, and Willie Nelson, to the traditional tune. The lyrics have also been set to new music by contemporary gospel artists such as Doris Johnson. more »

Year: 2004 2:42 8,576 Views

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Loretta Lynn

Loretta Lynn (née Webb; born on April 14, 1932) is an American country-music singer-songwriter and author. Born in Butcher Hollow, near Paintsville, Kentucky, USA, to a coal-miner father. At the age of 14 she married, and soon she became pregnant. She moved to Washington state with her husband, Oliver Vanetta Lynn, Jr. (1926–1996), nicknamed "Doo". Their marriage was tumultuous; he had affairs, and she was headstrong; their life together helped to inspire her music. more »

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6 facts about this song

Song Composition and Origin
"When the Roll Is Called up Yonder" is a Christian hymn written by James Milton Black in 1893. - This song is a staple in many church worship services, especially within Protestant denominations.
Interpretation by Jim Nabors
Although recognized for his roles in TV shows, Jim Nabors was also a talented singer. His rendition of this hymn, found in his album "Jim Nabors' Christmas", showcases his ability to mix his unique baritone with traditional gospel songs.
Johnny Cash's Version
Johnny Cash, recognized for his deep, resonant baritone voice, and his distinctive singing style that fused country and rock music, performed his version on his album "Believe in Him" in 1986. - Cash's version stands out because it's infused with his own distinct sound, providing a country flavor to a song rooted in traditional gospel.
Loretta Lynn's Perspective
Loretta Lynn, a popular country singer, performed this hymn showcasing her powerful, emotive voice that can convey both heartache and joy. - Her down-to-earth, authentic singing style matches well with the hymn's inspirational and spiritual theme.
Willie Nelson's Cover
Renowned country singer Willie Nelson also performed a famous cover of "When the Roll Is Called up Yonder". He included the song on his album "The Troublemaker" in 1976. - Nelson is known for his unique, jazz-influenced phrasing and his willingness to break country music convention, which he applied even when singing this traditional hymn.
Shared Legacy
Though each artist had their own unique style, each version of "When the Roll Is Called up Yonder" by Jim Nabors, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn and Willie Nelson, continues to inspire generations and play a part in the rich tapestry of religious music. - The interpretations of this song by these four artists demonstrate the versatility of the song as it adapts to different musical styles and interpretations, while keeping its original, spiritual message intact.
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When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder

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more tracks from the album

All Time Gospel Favorites [Time Life] [Bonus Tracks]

  • #1How Great Thou Art
  • #2Precious Memories
  • #3In the Sweet By and By
  • #4Amazing Grace
  • #5When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder
  • #6What a Friend We Have in Jesus
  • #7Wings of a Dove
  • #8Just a Closwer Walk With Thee
  • #9Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
  • #10Peace in the Valley
  • #11I Feel Like Traveling On
  • #12Old Rugged Cross
  • #13Will the Circle Be Unbroken
  • #14In the Garden
  • #15I'd Rather Have Jesus
  • #16I'll Fly Away
  • #17Softly and Tenderly
  • #18Unclouded Day
  • #19Old Time Religion
  • #20If I Could Hear My Mother Pray Again

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