About The Song
Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit in the Sky” is an iconic song released in late 1969, reaching No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a gold record in the United States, selling two million copies by 1970. The song was written quickly, taking only 15 minutes to compose.
Greenbaum, who is Jewish, opted to use the word “Jesus” instead of a Jewish term for God, aiming for broader appeal. Despite being considered a one-hit wonder, “Spirit in the Sky” remains a classic rock anthem, reflecting Greenbaum’s unique approach to blending religious themes with rock music.
Lyrics
When I die and they lay me to rest
Gonna go to the place that's the best
When I lay me down to die
Goin' up to the spirit in the sky
Goin' up to the spirit in the sky
That's where I'm gonna go when I die
When I die and they lay me to rest
Gonna go to the place that's the best
Prepare yourself you know it's a must
Gotta have a friend in Jesus
So you know that when you die
He's gonna recommend you
To the spirit in the sky
Gonna recommend you
To the spirit in the sky
That's where you're gonna go when you die
When you die and they lay you to rest
You're gonna go to the place that's the best
Never been a sinner. I never sinned
I got a friend in Jesus
So you know that when I die
He's gonna set me up with
The spirit in the sky
Oh set me up with the spirit in the sky
That's where I'm gonna go when I die
When I die and they lay me to rest
I'm gonna go to the place that's the best
Go to the place that's the best