About the song
“Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen” is a poignant and deeply moving African-American spiritual song with origins dating back to the era of slavery. Although it was composed and performed during this challenging period, it wasn’t officially published until 1867. This song has a rich history and remains an important part of American musical heritage.
The song’s lyrics express profound sorrow and resilience, reflecting the struggles and emotional pain experienced by many African Americans during that time. The repeated refrain, “Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen,” captures a universal sense of personal suffering and a longing for understanding and empathy.
Throughout its history, “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen” has been embraced and recorded by a wide range of artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to the piece. Renowned performers such as Marian Anderson, Lena Horne, Louis Armstrong, Harry James, Paul Robeson, and Sam Cooke have all contributed their voices to this powerful song. Their versions have helped to keep the song’s message alive and relevant across generations.
The enduring appeal of “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen” lies in its ability to convey deep emotions and connect with listeners on a personal level. Whether performed with a rich, soulful tone or a simple, heartfelt delivery, the song continues to resonate with audiences and serve as a reminder of both historical hardship and the strength of the human spirit.
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Lyrics
Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen
Nobody knows my sorrow
Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen
Glory, Hallelujah
Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen
Nobody knows but Jesus
Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen
Glory, Hallelujah
Sometimes I’m up
Sometimes I’m down
Oh, yes, Lord
Sometimes I’m almost to the ground
Oh, yes, Lord
Oh, nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen
Nobody knows my sorrow
Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen
Glory, Hallelujah
Oh, every day to you I pray
Oh, yes Lord
For you to drive my sins away
Oh, yes Lord
Oh, nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen
Nobody knows but Jesus
Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen
(Glory) glory Hallelujah (hallelujah) (Lord)