Amen

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The Impressions, Curtis Mayfield

About Amen

"Amen" is a traditional gospel song that was popularized by The Impressions with their 1964 version. It was recorded earlier, in June 1948, and released in January 1949 by the "Wings Over Jordan Choir". The song was arranged by Jester Hairston, for the Sidney Poitier film Lilies of the Field (1963), which popularized the song. Curtis Mayfield said "I'd gone to see 'Lilies of The Field,' and the song in it, 'Amen,' was very inspiring for me as was the movie . . . Of course, I'd decided to do a version of it. We put it together in the studio starting off with a musical 'swing low sweet chariot', and then we fell into that particular song with somewhat of a marching rhythm." The song was the first Impressions' hit that Mayfield did not write. Mayfield inserted the title of the song "Keep on Pushing", which was recorded by the Impressions, in-between the lyrics of the song. The song went to number one on Cashbox Magazine's R&B chart for three weeks and reached #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart in 1964. The B-side, "Long, Long Winter", peaked at #35 on the Cashbox R&B chart. A new version was released by The Impressions in 1969 under the title "Amen (1970)", reaching #44 on the Billboard Best Selling Soul Singles chart in January 1970. 


Year:
2004
3:29
10,311 
#21

Lyrics currently unavailable…


The Impressions

The Impressions are an American music group from Chicago, originally formed in 1958. Their repertoire includes doo-wop, gospel, soul, and R&B. more »

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12 facts about this song

Formation of Group
"The Impressions" were initially formed in 1958. They were a music group admired for their soulful harmonies and gospel style.
Famous Members
The Impressions featured future solo superstar Curtis Mayfield who would later gain significant fame as a solo artist in his own right.
Song Release
"Amen" was released in 1964 as part of the album "Keep On Pushing".
Chart Performance
The song reached number seven on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Gospel Influence
"Amen" is a traditional gospel song that has been covered by many artists throughout the years. It features an infectious call-and-response chorus.
Musical Style
The Impressions were known for their unique mix of doo-wop, gospel, soul, and R&B, and "Amen" showcases this wonderful combination.
Soundtrack To Movements
In the 1960s, The Impressions' music, including "Amen," became a soundtrack for the civil rights movement.
Source of Motivation
Songs like "Amen" and others from the group have been cited as a source of motivation and affirmation for African Americans during the civil rights era.
Relevance Today
The song, which speaks to overcoming hardship and adversity through faith, still resonates with many listeners today, reflecting its timeless message.
Covers and Versions
"Amen" has been covered by a multitude of artists over the years in various genres, attesting to its enduring popularity and influence.
Movie Appearances
The Impressions' version of "Amen" appeared in the 1980 film "The Blues Brothers."
Encouragement Through Music
The Impressions' hit "Amen" was used as a form of encouragement and unity during a tumultuous time in American history.

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    Amen

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1965

    Billboard #7


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