1016. The Power and the Glory (Phil Ochs)

This song was originally released on the debut album, "All the News That's Fit to Sing" (1964). When Ochs started writing it in 1963, he told his sister Sonny that he was writing "the greatest song I'll ever write". It is indeed a great patriotic anthem which some have compared to the work of Woody Guthrie. There are three verses, the first describing the beauty of the American landscape, the second listing some of the states and the third pointing out that the country is "only as rich as the poorest of the poor" but also as "strong as our love for this land". In between is the chorus which states that "her power shall rest on the strength of her freedom" and "Her glory shall rest on us all." It is ironic that he was regarded as a traitor by the more conservative elements of the establishment.

The song has been covered by many performers, including Pete Seeger, Theodore Bikel, The Limeliters, Ronnie Gilbert, the U.S. Army Soldiers Chorus and Anita Bryant, whose rendition amused Ochs, as she was known for her right-wing politics.

For lyrics and chords of my songs, see my website: http://www.raymondcrooke.com

Category:

Music

Tags:

• folk
• song
• patriotic
• protest
• seeger
• bikel
• limeliters
• lindsaycurran

[LennonsCafe]

Raymond, it is a great song and yet, most people have never heard it before. When I was listening, I just assumed that you would be an American, until I noticed some subtle words that indicated that you were from somewhere else!! You have a great voice and you sing with passion. Well done.

[raymondcrooke]

@LennonsCafe Unfortunately a lot of Ochs' songs are not as well known as they deserve to be. Thanks for your comments.

[Tony2581]

Excellent choice and performance, Raymond! And thanks, as always, for the accompanying history lesson! Best wishes, Tony

[raymondcrooke]

Thanks, Tony. Phil Ochs wrote some excellent songs.

[SirCoughsalot]

Well, it's not his best song in my opinion (that would be I Ain't Marching Anymore) but it's up there. I love it so much, never fails to move me.

[raymondcrooke]

That was just his own opinion. But you're right - it is a great song.

[raymondcrooke]

Thank you, Alan.

[raymondcrooke]

Thanks, Mike.

[blinddrunkal]

Excellent, Raymond!! All the best :o) Alan

[mktmic7]

nice job ******