Music Video
O Death — Ralph Stanley Lyrics
Soundtrack: O Brother, Where Art Thou?
O Death Song Lyrics
O, Death
O, Death
Won't you spare me over til another year
Well what is this that I can't see
With ice cold hands takin' hold of me
Well I am death, none can excel
I'll open the door to heaven or hell
Whoa, death someone would pray
Could you wait to call me another day
The children prayed, the preacher preached
Time and mercy is out of your reach
I'll fix your feet til you cant walk
I'll lock your jaw til you cant talk
I'll close your eyes so you can't see
This very hour, come and go with me
I'm death I come to take the soul
Leave the body and leave it cold
To draw up the flesh off of the frame
Dirt and worm both have a claim
O, Death
O, Death
Won't you spare me over til another year
My mother came to my bed
Placed a cold towel upon my head
My head is warm my feet are cold
Death is a-movin upon my soul
Oh, death how you're treatin' me
You've close my eyes so I can't see
Well you're hurtin' my body
You make me cold
You run my life right outta my soul
Oh death please consider my age
Please don't take me at this stage
My wealth is all at your command
If you will move your icy hand
Oh the young, the rich or poor
Hunger like me you know
No wealth, no ruin, no silver no gold
Nothing satisfies me but your soul
O, death
O, death
Wont you spare me over til another year
Wont you spare me over til another year
Wont you spare me over til another year
Track Listing
›Po Lazarus
James Carter & the Prisoners
›In the Big Rock Candy Mountains
Harry McClintock
›You are My Sunshine
Norman Blake
›Down to the River to Pray
Alison Krauss
›I am a Man of Constant Sorrow
The Soggy Bottom Boys
›Hard Time Killing Floor Blues
Chris Thomas King
›Keep on the Sunny Side
The Whites
›I'll Fly Away
Alison Krauss and Gillian Welch
›Didn't Leave Nobody but the Baby
Emmylou Harris, Alison Krauss and Gillian Welch
›In the Highways
Sarah, Hannah and Leah Peasall
›I am Weary (Let Me Rest)
The Cox Family
›O Death
Ralph Stanley
›In the Jailhouse Now
The Soggy Bottom Boys
›Lonesome Valley
Fairfield Four
›Angel Band
The Stanley Brothers
May, 07th 2014
"O Death" by Ralph Stanley is a deeply introspective somg that delves into the existential dread and acceptance of mortality. Its lyrics engage in a somber dialogue with Death, personifying it as an omnipotent force capable of determining the fate of souls. The song's narrator pleads for more time, a reprieve from death's inevitable claim, illustrating the universal fear and bargaining that accompanies the realization of one's mortality.
This traditional ballad, with its roots tracing back to the early 20th century, has bren passed through generations, evolving in its journey. It's not just a mere reflection on death but also a portrayal of the human condition, our vulnerabilities, and the inevitability that death brings to all, irrespective of status or wealth.
Ralph Stanley's rendition, featured prominently in the film "O Brother, Where Art Thou?", brings a haunting and soulful quality to the song, making it resonate deeply with listeners. It's revered not only for its powerful lyrics and melody but also for Stanley's emotive performance, which captures the essence of the song's themes. "O Death" stands out as a poignant reminder of life's fragility and the universal journey towards understanding and accepting our own mortality.
The song's impact extends beyond its haunting melody and evocative lyrics; it serves as a cultural artifact preserving the musical heritage of Appalachia. It invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, the transient nature of existence, and what lies beyond, making "O Death" a timeless piece that continues to inspire introspection and contemplation.
This traditional ballad, with its roots tracing back to the early 20th century, has bren passed through generations, evolving in its journey. It's not just a mere reflection on death but also a portrayal of the human condition, our vulnerabilities, and the inevitability that death brings to all, irrespective of status or wealth.
Ralph Stanley's rendition, featured prominently in the film "O Brother, Where Art Thou?", brings a haunting and soulful quality to the song, making it resonate deeply with listeners. It's revered not only for its powerful lyrics and melody but also for Stanley's emotive performance, which captures the essence of the song's themes. "O Death" stands out as a poignant reminder of life's fragility and the universal journey towards understanding and accepting our own mortality.
The song's impact extends beyond its haunting melody and evocative lyrics; it serves as a cultural artifact preserving the musical heritage of Appalachia. It invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, the transient nature of existence, and what lies beyond, making "O Death" a timeless piece that continues to inspire introspection and contemplation.
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