GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN

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 1907


“Go Tell It on the Mountain” – History of the Hymn


“Go Tell It on the Mountain” is a traditional African American spiritual that emerged in the 19th century, rooted in the experience of enslaved African Americans in the United States.


Origins


The hymn originated as a spiritual, a form of sacred folk song used by enslaved people to express faith, hope, resistance, and community.


Like many spirituals, it was passed down orally, not written by a single known author.


Its joyful message proclaims the birth of Jesus Christ, drawing from Luke 2:8–20, where shepherds announce the good news.


Collection and Publication


The song was first written down and published by John Wesley Work Jr. (1871–1925), an African American composer, educator, and scholar.


It appeared in his 1907 collection Folk Songs of the American Negro.


Work played a major role in preserving African American spirituals that might otherwise have been lost.


Meaning and Themes


The phrase “Go tell it on the mountain” reflects the biblical imagery of proclaiming good news boldly and publicly.


Beyond Christmas, the hymn carried deeper meaning for enslaved communities:


Hope for freedom


Spiritual liberation


The call to share truth despite oppression


Musical Characteristics


Traditionally sung in a call-and-response style.


Simple, repetitive structure made it easy to learn and sing communally.


Often accompanied by clapping or rhythmic movement.


Legacy


Today, “Go Tell It on the Mountain” is one of the most beloved Christmas hymns worldwide.


It is sung across denominations and cultures and performed in styles ranging from traditional gospel to choir, jazz, and contemporary Christian music.


It remains a powerful reminder of the African American contribution to Christian worship and American musical history.

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