The Spirituals bring renewed life to “Wade In The Water,” a traditional African American spiritual presented as part of their Black History Project (Live from London) EP. The global song carries a message shaped by faith, freedom, and the determination to overcome oppression. Its biblical imagery recalls the Israelites’ deliverance from bondage in Egypt, connecting their journey to freedom with the struggles and hopes of Black people throughout history.
What makes this rendition especially meaningful is its blend of Christian faith with cultural remembrance. The Spirituals preserve the spiritual’s message of hope while incorporating lyrical expressions that connect its historic themes to a new generation. The repeated call to wade through the water becomes a powerful reminder to keep moving forward in the face of hardship, trusting in God’s ability to bring deliverance. Originally released as part of a project honouring music that has shaped Black history and culture, this live performance invites listeners to reflect on both the pain endured by previous generations and the enduring hope that sustains people through difficult times.
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God said he's gonna trouble the water
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God said he's gonna trouble the water
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God's gonna trouble the water
We are the sons and the daughters
We gotta stand up and make it loud
Just like our God told the Pharaoh
"Let my people go, go"
We are a new generation
From the ones who have come before
He's calling us into freedom
Let my people go, go
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God said he's gonna trouble the water
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God's gonna trouble the water
We are the sons and the daughters
We gotta stand up and make it loud
Just like our God told the Pharaoh
"Let my people go, go"
We are a new generation
From the ones who have come before
He's calling us into freedom
Let my people go, go
We no go shy, no go shame
Ibi your papa God wey 'e make the heavens
If you know sey you no want trouble
Let my people go, go
With blood, sweat and tears
That we've gathered through the years
If you know sey you no want trouble
Let my people go, go
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God said he's gonna trouble the water
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God's gonna trouble the water
Oh-oh-oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh
Oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh
Oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh, oh
Oh-oh-oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh
Oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh
Oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh, oh
Oh-oh-oh
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God's said he's gonna trouble the water
Wade in the water
We dey wade in the water
Children wade in the water
God's gonna trouble the water
Oh-oh-oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh
Oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh
Oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh, oh
Oh-oh-oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh
Oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh
Oh, oh, oh-ooh-oh, oh
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