Curtis Mayfield was a member of The Impressions before leaving for a solo career in 1970. Inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, The Impressions' songs served as inspirational anthems for the Civil Rights Movement, including the hit "People Get Ready".
Mayfield wrote this classic in 1964, when the civil rights movement was coming into its own. He was inspired by "Amen", an African-American spiritual that was featured in the 1963 film Lilies of the Field starring Sidney Poitier.
You can hear the uplifting gospel influence that underpins the power of The Impressions' soul and R&B music in "Keep on Pushing". Check it out.
Now look-a yonder
What's that I see
A great big stone wall
Stands there ahead of me
But I've got my pride
And I'll move on aside
And keep on pushin'