I’ve already blogged an adaptation of this song, but not this arrangement, which is closer to the original as arranged by Diana Kodner. GIA now sell a yet different version arranged by Rob Glover, which appears more swung than this one and easier to play. Hymnary also have the sheet music.
The text is an African American spiritual thought to be based on advice to fugitive slaves to cover their tracks by using watercourses. I have found varying versions but the ones below are from Gather.
My backing is also the one in Gather 3rd edition.
RefrainWade in the water
Wade in the water, childrenWade in the water
God is gonna trouble these waters1 See that band all dressed in white
God is gonna trouble these waters
It look like a band of the Israelites
God is gonna trouble these waters2 See that band all dressed in red
God is gonna trouble these waters
Look like a band that Moses led
God is gonna trouble these waters3 Look over yonder, what di I see?
God is gonna trouble these waters
Holy Ghost a comin’ on me.
God is gonna trouble these waters4 If you don’t believe that I’ve been redeemed,
God is gonna trouble these waters
Follow me down to Jordan’s stream,
God is gonna trouble these waters