You will no doubt start humming this song from the very title – originally released in 1965 by The Impressions, from their album of the same name, ‘People Get Ready’ was voted the 122nd greatest song of all time by Rolling Stone in 2021. It’s been covered by countless artists all over the world, including Curtis Mayfield, Bob Marley, U2, Bob Dylan, and Rod Stewart with Jeff Beck. Now it’s the turn of Bill Crews and the Crews Cartel, and in their hands the track takes on a more country feel, without losing any of the soul of the original.
Bill Crews was brought up by a travelling minister, and likewise he’s made it his mission to spread the good news everywhere he goes – through song. With nods firmly in the direction of John Prine, Marshall Tucker, and Jimmy Buffett, Bill Crews’ sound is warm and welcoming.
‘People Get Ready’ is a classic song of hope and peace, and Bill Crews and the Crews Cartel give it all they’ve got with their gentle storytelling, a piano cameo from jazz great Ben Tankard, and Tammy Parnell’s soulful vocals shining through on a couple of verses. Soaring sax and slide guitar give the track a little extra oomph, but it’s already a powerful song.
Directed and edited by Bill’s longtime friend Maureen McCarthy, the video for ‘People Get Ready’ serves as the perfect recipe for peace, love, and joy. Taking her cues from the song’s lyrics, McCarthy has chosen scenes of trains, friends, children, pets, and lovers. It’s a beautiful clip, for a beautiful song.
Watch the music video for ‘People Get Ready’ below, and follow Bill Crews on his official website for more.
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