About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"People Get Ready," originally written and recorded by Curtis Mayfield in 1965, is a soulful and spiritually charged song that has been covered by numerous artists over the years. One of the standout renditions is Rod Stewart's soul-stirring version, featured on his critically acclaimed album "Unplugged...and Seated" released in 1993. Stewart's interpretation of "People Get Ready" showcases his ability to infuse a classic with his own distinctive style while paying homage to the timeless nature of the original.
Rod Stewart's "Unplugged...and Seated" album, recorded live for MTV, features a collection of stripped-down and acoustic performances. In this intimate setting, Stewart's rendition of "People Get Ready" takes on a new dimension, highlighting the raw emotion and soulful nuances of the song. The unplugged format allows the listener to connect more intimately with the music, emphasizing the power of the lyrics and Stewart's evocative vocals.
The song's lyrics convey a message of hope, faith, and spiritual preparedness. The metaphorical train in the lyrics symbolizes a journey toward salvation, and the call for people to get ready resonates with a universal sense of anticipation and optimism. Stewart's heartfelt delivery enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics, creating a deeply moving listening experience.
Stewart's vocal performance in "People Get Ready" is characterized by its sincerity and vulnerability. His gravelly voice, often associated with rock and blues, adapts seamlessly to the soulful and gospel-inflected nature of the song. Stewart's ability to convey authenticity and emotion through his vocals adds a layer of richness to the performance, making it a standout moment in his extensive catalog.
The arrangement of Stewart's version maintains the soulful essence of the original while incorporating acoustic instrumentation that suits the unplugged format. The acoustic guitar, in particular, provides a warm and inviting backdrop, allowing the focus to remain on the vocals and the profound message of the song. The live setting adds an organic and spontaneous quality, capturing the energy of the moment and creating an atmosphere that enhances the spiritual undertones of the track.
Stewart's rendition of "People Get Ready" also features a notable collaboration with Jeff Beck, the legendary guitarist. Beck's soulful and expressive guitar playing complements Stewart's vocals, adding an extra layer of emotion and musicality to the performance. The synergy between Stewart and Beck further elevates the song, creating a memorable and powerful rendition that pays homage to the original while adding a new dimension.
The impact of Rod Stewart's version of "People Get Ready" extends beyond its initial release. The recording earned critical acclaim and contributed to the renewed appreciation of the song. Stewart's interpretation showcases his ability to connect with the soulful and spiritual aspects of the music, transcending genre boundaries and delivering a rendition that resonates with a broad audience.
In conclusion, Rod Stewart's rendition of "People Get Ready" is a testament to his interpretative skill and his ability to breathe new life into a classic. The unplugged setting, combined with Stewart's soulful vocals and the collaboration with Jeff Beck, creates a powerful and emotionally resonant performance. This rendition stands as a testament to the enduring power of Curtis Mayfield's timeless composition and the universal themes of hope and spiritual readiness that continue to resonate with listeners through Stewart's heartfelt interpretation.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
People get ready
There's a train a-coming
You don't need no baggage
You just get on board
All you need is faith
To hear the diesels humming
Don't need no ticket
You just thank the Lord
People get ready
For the train to Jordan
Picking up passengers
From coast to coast
Faith is the key
Open the doors and board them
There's room for all
Among the loved the most
There ain't no room
For the hopeless sinner
Who would hurt all mankind just
To save his own
Have pity on those
Whose chances are thinner
Cause there's no hiding place
From the Kingdom's Throne
So people get ready
For the train a-comin'
You don't need no baggage
You just get on board
All you need is faith
To hear the diesels humming
Don't need no ticket
You just thank, you just thank the Lord
Yeah
Oh
Yeah
Oh
I'm getting ready
I'm getting ready
This time I'm ready
This time I'm ready