About the song
“Spirit in the Sky” is a seminal song by Norman Greenbaum, marking a significant moment in music history with its blend of rock, gospel, and psychedelic influences. Originally released in late 1969 as part of his album of the same name, the track swiftly became a cultural phenomenon. Achieving gold record status in the United States with over two million copies sold from 1969 to 1970, “Spirit in the Sky” soared to No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and remained in the Top 100 for an impressive 15 weeks. Its popularity extended globally, topping charts in the UK, Australia, and Canada in 1970, solidifying Greenbaum’s international acclaim.
Rolling Stone honored “Spirit in the Sky” by ranking it No. 333 on its prestigious list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time”. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its multiple chart-topping cover versions, including renditions by Doctor and the Medics and Gareth Gates in the UK. It also earned recognition as one of the top ten one-hit wonders in a Rolling Stone reader’s poll, underscoring its lasting impact on popular culture.
Greenbaum’s inspiration for the song stemmed from an unexpected source: a televised gospel performance by Porter Wagoner. Despite his Jewish background, Greenbaum felt compelled to craft his own gospel song, blending his eclectic musical influences into what he described as an organic creative process. With guidance from producer Erik Jacobsen, the song’s distinctive sound took shape at Coast Recorders in San Francisco, featuring a mix of boogie rock, blues, and gospel elements highlighted by Greenbaum’s fuzz-tone infused guitar and the soulful harmonies of the Stovall Sisters.
Upon release, “Spirit in the Sky” faced initial hesitancy from Greenbaum’s record label due to its unconventional length and lyrical content. However, its undeniable appeal resonated with audiences worldwide, making it Reprise Records’ best-selling single at the time. Even John Lennon praised the song in a notable interview, solidifying its place in the pantheon of rock classics.
Despite the song’s success, subsequent albums and singles from Greenbaum failed to match its commercial impact. By the 1980s, he had transitioned away from music, pursuing a career in the culinary industry. Nevertheless, “Spirit in the Sky” continued to find new audiences through its inclusion in films like “Wayne’s World 2” and “Apollo 13”, as well as in various commercial campaigns, affirming its timeless appeal across generations.
Greenbaum himself reflected on the enduring popularity of “Spirit in the Sky”, noting its resonance even in unexpected settings such as memorial services. His creation remains a testament to the transformative power of music, transcending genres and beliefs to become a universally cherished anthem of faith and rock ‘n’ roll spirit.
Video
Lyrics
When I die and they lay me to rest
Gonna go to the place that’s the best
When I lay me down to die
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky (spirit in the sky)
That’s where I’m gonna go when I die (when I die)
When I die and they lay me to rest
I’m gonna go to the place that’s the best
Prepare yourself you know it’s a must
Gotta have a friend in Jesus
So you know that when you die
He’s gonna recommend you
To the spirit in the sky (spirit in the sky)
Oh he’ll recommend you to the spirit in the sky
That’s where you’re gonna go when you die (when you die)
When you die and they lay you to rest
You’re gonna go to the place that’s the best
Never been a sinner, I never sinned
I got a friend in Jesus
So you know that when I die
He’s gonna set me up
with the spirit in the sky
Oh set me up with the spirit in the sky (spirit in the sky)
That’s where I’m gonna go when I die (when I die)
When I die and they lay me to rest
I’m gonna go to the place that’s the best
Go to the place that’s the best