When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder

Willie Nelson

About When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder

When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder is an 1893 hymn with words and music by James Milton Black. The song was inspired by the idea of The Book of Life mentioned in the Bible, and by the absence of a child in Black's Sunday school class when the attendance was taken. The idea of someone's being not in attendance in heaven haunted Black, and after visiting the child's home and calling on a doctor to attend her for pneumonia, he went home and wrote the song after not finding one on a similar topic in his hymn collection. The song's lyrics were first published in a collection titled Songs of the Soul and the song has since been translated into at least 14 languages and sung all over the world in a variety of Christian denominations. There are more than 500 versions available on such sites as Amazon, recorded by various artists such as Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Jim Nabors, and Willie Nelson, to the traditional tune. The lyrics have also been set to new music by contemporary gospel artists such as Doris Johnson. 


Year:
2011
260 
#4

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When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more,
And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;
When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore,
And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

[Chorus:]
When the roll, is called up yon-der,
When the roll, is called up yon-der,
When the roll, is called up yon-der,
When the roll is called up yonder I'll be there.

On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise,
And the glory of His resurrection share;
When His chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies,
And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

[Chorus:]

Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun,
Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care;
Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done,
And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

[Chorus:]

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Willie Nelson

Willie Hugh Nelson (pronounced /wɪli nɛlsən /; born April 30, 1933) is an American country music singer-songwriter, as well as an author, poet, actor, and activist. The critical success of the album Shotgun Willie (1973), combined with the critical and commercial success of Red Headed Stranger (1975) and Stardust (1978), made Nelson one of the most recognized artists in country music. He was one of the main figures of outlaw country, a subgenre of country music that developed at the end of the 1960s as a reaction to the conservative restrictions of the Nashville sound. Nelson has acted in over 30 films, co-authored several books, and has been involved in activism for the use of biofuels and the legalization of marijuana. more »

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Written by: C. Barny Robertson, James Milton Black

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Bluewater Music Corp., Integrity Music, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


6 facts about this song

Song Composition and Origin
"When the Roll Is Called up Yonder" is a Christian hymn written by James Milton Black in 1893. - This song is a staple in many church worship services, especially within Protestant denominations.
Interpretation by Jim Nabors
Although recognized for his roles in TV shows, Jim Nabors was also a talented singer. His rendition of this hymn, found in his album "Jim Nabors' Christmas", showcases his ability to mix his unique baritone with traditional gospel songs.
Johnny Cash's Version
Johnny Cash, recognized for his deep, resonant baritone voice, and his distinctive singing style that fused country and rock music, performed his version on his album "Believe in Him" in 1986. - Cash's version stands out because it's infused with his own distinct sound, providing a country flavor to a song rooted in traditional gospel.
Loretta Lynn's Perspective
Loretta Lynn, a popular country singer, performed this hymn showcasing her powerful, emotive voice that can convey both heartache and joy. - Her down-to-earth, authentic singing style matches well with the hymn's inspirational and spiritual theme.
Willie Nelson's Cover
Renowned country singer Willie Nelson also performed a famous cover of "When the Roll Is Called up Yonder". He included the song on his album "The Troublemaker" in 1976. - Nelson is known for his unique, jazz-influenced phrasing and his willingness to break country music convention, which he applied even when singing this traditional hymn.
Shared Legacy
Though each artist had their own unique style, each version of "When the Roll Is Called up Yonder" by Jim Nabors, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn and Willie Nelson, continues to inspire generations and play a part in the rich tapestry of religious music. - The interpretations of this song by these four artists demonstrate the versatility of the song as it adapts to different musical styles and interpretations, while keeping its original, spiritual message intact.

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