“Chain Gang” is a song written and recorded by American singer-songwriter Sam Cooke. It was released in 1960 as the B-side of his single “Twistin’ the Night Away”. The song is a blues ballad about a man who is working on a chain gang. The lyrics describe the harsh conditions of life on the chain gang and the man’s longing for freedom. Cooke’s soulful vocals and the song’s catchy melody have made it a classic of soul music.

The song was inspired by Cooke’s own experiences. In 1957, he was arrested for disturbing the peace after a performance in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was sentenced to spend 30 days on a chain gang. Cooke’s time on the chain gang was a harrowing experience, but it also inspired him to write “Chain Gang”.

“Chain Gang” was a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was also a critical success, with many critics praising Cooke’s vocals and the song’s lyrics. The song has been covered by many artists, including Otis Redding, The Beatles, and Bruce Springsteen.

“Chain Gang” is an important song in the history of soul music. It is a powerful and moving song that tells the story of a man who is struggling for freedom. Cooke’s vocals are soulful and passionate, and the song’s lyrics are poetic and evocative. “Chain Gang” is a classic song that continues to be relevant today.

Some interesting facts about the song:

• The song was originally written as a poem by Cooke.
• The song was recorded in one take.
• The song was banned by some radio stations because of its lyrics.
• The song was used in the movie “The Shawshank Redemption”.

Here are some additional details about the song’s significance:

• “Chain Gang” is one of the first songs to address the issue of mass incarceration in the United States.
• The song was a major influence on the civil rights movement.
• The song is still relevant today, as it speaks to the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

Video