Over The Hill Precious Lord by Janice Dukes: A Funky Gospel Punch from 1977
Alright, let’s cut to the chase. Over The Hill Precious Lord isn’t just some random gospel album collecting dust in your grandma’s record collection—it’s a raw, soulful slap in the face that demands attention. Released back in ’77 on One Way Records, this Janice Dukes gem brings the heat with its mix of funk and spiritual fire. And yeah, it’s unapologetically American, straight outta the US.
First off, you gotta talk about “Precious Lord.” Man, this track hits like a freight train. It’s not just singing; it’s preaching through sound. Janice doesn’t hold back—her voice cracks open the heavens while the band lays down grooves so thick you could spread ‘em on toast. You can feel every ounce of emotion she pours into those lyrics. This ain’t background music for sipping tea—this is front-and-center, make-you-wanna-get-up-and-testify kind of stuff. When I hear this one, I don’t just listen—I feel it. Like, how do you even compete with that?
Then there’s “Over The Hill.” Don’t let the title fool ya—this ain’t no slow crawl. Nope, it’s more like a joyride through redemption alley. The bassline? Ridiculous. The horns? Sharp enough to cut glass. And Janice? She owns this track like it owes her money. There’s something about the way she belts out the chorus that sticks to your ribs. Honestly, if this song doesn’t make you wanna dance or at least nod your head real hard, check your pulse—you might be dead.
What makes this album wild is how it refuses to play nice. Gospel records from the '70s often lean too safe, but not this one. Janice Dukes came to shake things up, blending church vibes with funky street swagger. Sure, the production has that vintage grit, but damn if it doesn’t work. Every note feels alive, like they recorded it live in a sweaty room full of believers.
Now here’s the kicker—why does an album like this still matter today? Maybe because we’re all looking for something real, something that punches through the noise. Or maybe it’s just proof that great music doesn’t need fancy tricks—it needs heart. Either way, Over The Hill Precious Lord reminds us that sometimes the oldest songs hit the hardest.
Oh, and one last thing—don’t sleep on the cover art. That font choice alone deserves its own sermon.
