Row the boat
Michael
Row the boat
Ashore
A negro spiritual
First noticed
During the American Civil War
Slaves, abandonned
By their masters
At St Helena Island
With many versions
And many traditions
A refrain known by many
Michel, row the boat ashore
Hallelujah!
Then you’ll hear the trumpet blow
Hallelujah!
Then you’ll hear the trumpet sound,
Hallelujah!
Trumpet sound the world around
Hallelujah!
Trumpet sound the jubilee
Hallelujah!
Trumpet sound for you and me
Hallelujah!
The crossing
Of the river Jordan
From slavery into freedom
Michael, archangel
Conductor of the souls
Of the deceased
And Jesus
Entering the waters
Of Baptism
