HOLD ON

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INFO: 
In the 1800s and early 1900s this song was often called "Freedom Plow"
in which it was illustrated that keeping a plow straight in the field
was similar to keeping one's life straight with Jesus. During the Civil
Rights era, this song was adapted to freedom struggles and renamed "Keep
Your Eyes on the Prize." New verses were added by Saro Lynch-Thomason for
the purposes of the March.

"Hold On Night" - This is a recording from the first night of the march,
when marchers and organizers were forced out of their overnight camping 
spot at John Slack Park. Since transporting several hundred people back 
to the warehouse in Marmet required a few hours' time, many marchers sang
while waiting for transportation. This particular recording is a haunting
reflection of a very frustrating situation. 
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LYRICS:

Paul & Silas were bound in jail
Had no money to go their bail
Keep your eyes on the prize, hold on
 
Chorus:
Hold on, hold on! (repeat)
Keep your eyes on the prize, hold on!

Paul & Silas began to shout
Jail doors opened and they walked out

The only thing that we did wrong
Was stay in the wilderness too long ...

Ain't but one chain that we can stand
That's the chain of a hand in a hand ...

Freedom's name is mighty sweet
Black & white are gonna meet ...

We've fought jail & violence too
And God's love has seen us through ...

Got my hand on the freedom plow
Wouldn't take nothin' for my journey now ...

Freedom's road is mighty slow
But it’s the only way to go.

Back in August of '21 
Miners did what had to be done.

Gonna March our way to Blair
And we'll stand with our comrades there.