Very few songs have moved me in recent years like this song. I first became a fan of Roby Duke in 1982 with the release of Not The Same. The terrific songwriting, his pure blue-eyed soul vocals and some exceptional jazz-pop arrangements drew me in and haven’t let me go in the ensuing 30 years. I managed a Christian record store at the time, and sold the disc to people all across the board…from pop and rock fans to lovers of black gospel choirs. Then, in 2008, I saw this video posted on YouTube. I had heard of Roby’s passing…but didn’t realize until I double-checked that this video was recorded roughly 3 days before his death. It’s a perfect picture of the heart of a believer as they ponder both their own passing and the fate of a lost world. Every time I listen, I hear new things within this song. I went hunting for the lyrics online and could find none (though Google suggested several pages which, by all rights, *should* have had them). So, I took the time to transcribe them myself. These are the lyrics from the album version. He changed up a couple things in the live performance on the video. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did! And Roby…rest in peace, brother. You left us a beautiful legacy.
When the roll is called up yonder
I believe that I’ll be there
Though I am the same man
With the same need as always
So they say
A soul is free to
Choose a path
To each his own
We’re livin’ in the same world
Under the same pale moon
Together
CHORUS
And some change would do us all some good
It’s so good for one to find
That there is no stairway to heaven
Only a Bridge Divine
You tell me change
Change is needed
To keep the world from growing old
And we all have the same dreams for our children as always
He hung the earth upon nothing
Said to a storm, “Peace, be still.”
What more could we give them
Something that would keep them safe
Forever and ever?
CHORUS
You tell me hearts are torn asunder
By the pain of moving on
We’re travelin’ on the same rails
Upon a train that’s bound for forever
I hope you know
You’re still my good friend
But when the saints go marchin’ in
I would like to turn and see your face…
CHORUS
written by Roby Duke. all appropriate credits belong to him.