This song is an African-American spiritual, probably from the nineteenth century. Like many spirituals, very little definite information is available about its origins. This text has two stanzas and a refrain. The stanzas are in the form of call and response, with identical second and fourth lines. While the text of the stanzas is not biblically accurate (the wise men – not the shepherds – followed the star), the message “Rise up, and follow” echoes other New Testament themes.
As is the case with most spirituals, the tune is unique to this text, and developed with it. The flatted seventh scale degree adds some melodic interest, but may pose a slight problem for congregational singing. Try singing the eighth notes with some swing.
This is a Christmas song. With its action-oriented message, it would make a good song of response. When used as a choral anthem, almost any accompaniment style works. The swing style choral setting, “Rise Up!” is sung a capella. A processional setting of “Rise Up, Shepherd” for choir has keyboard accompaniment (with optional additional instruments). Jack Schrader’s choral arrangement of “Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow” can be accompanied by a full orchestra, or piano alone.