Goodson’s gospel song was included in the African American hymnal Lift Every Voice and Sing (1981). The setting by Richard Smallwood (PHH 365) displays some of the chord structures, melodic decorations, and rhythmic figures that are common in the African American gospel style. The printed score of gospel songs only conveys a guide1ine to actual performance; improvisation is the operative word! The congregation should sing the refrain (framed by "We've come this far by faith") aided by a choir who could improvise a harmony part. A soloist could sing the stanza ("Don't be discouraged. . .") with additional improvisation in the melody line and accompaniment. Try accompanying with piano, guitars, and percussion instruments. Don't rush!
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook, 1988
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