God's Gonna Cut You Down Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
If you're a fan of the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, you've probably heard their fantastic cover of the classic American folk song "God's Gonna Cut You Down." This haunting tune has been recorded by many artists over the years, but the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club's version is arguably one of the best. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the song's history, lyrics, and meaning.
The History of "God's Gonna Cut You Down"
"God's Gonna Cut You Down" is an old African-American spiritual that has been passed down through generations of musicians. The song's origins are somewhat murky, but it's generally believed to have originated in the southern United States sometime in the 19th century. Over the years, the song has been recorded by a wide range of artists, including Johnny Cash, Odetta, and Elvis Presley.
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club's cover of the song was released in 2007 as part of the soundtrack for the video game "Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock." The band's version of the song features a stripped-down, bluesy sound that perfectly captures the song's dark and foreboding lyrics.
The Lyrics of "God's Gonna Cut You Down"
The lyrics of "God's Gonna Cut You Down" are simple yet powerful. The song's verses warn sinners that God will one day judge them for their misdeeds and that they will ultimately face the consequences of their actions. The chorus of the song is a repeated refrain that emphasizes the inevitability of this judgment:
"Go tell that long tongue liar,Go and tell that midnight rider,Tell the rambler,The gambler,The back biter,Tell 'em that God's gonna cut 'em down."
These lyrics are a powerful reminder that our actions have consequences and that we must ultimately answer for the things we've done in our lives. The song's ominous tone and haunting melody make it a memorable and thought-provoking piece of music.
The Meaning of "God's Gonna Cut You Down"
At its core, "God's Gonna Cut You Down" is a warning to sinners that they must repent of their misdeeds or face judgment from God. The song's lyrics emphasize the inevitability of this judgment and remind listeners that they must take responsibility for their actions and seek forgiveness before it's too late.
Of course, the song's meaning may vary depending on the listener's interpretation. Some may see it as a warning against hypocrisy and deceit, while others may view it as a call to live a virtuous and honest life.
Conclusion
"God's Gonna Cut You Down" is a classic American folk song that has been passed down through generations of musicians. The Black Rebel Motorcycle Club's cover of the song is a standout version that perfectly captures the song's dark and ominous tone. Whether you see the song as a warning against sin or a call to live a virtuous life, its message is clear: we must take responsibility for our actions and seek forgiveness before it's too late.