Oklahoma House Approves 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot' As State Gospel Song

NewsOn6.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma House has named "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" as the official gospel song of the state.

The House voted 89-0 Monday to approve the bill by Rep. Jabar Shumate of Tulsa designating the song. It now goes to Gov. Mary Fallin to be signed into law.

"Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" was written in Indian Territory in 1862 by a Choctaw Freedman named Wallis Willis. The Red River reminded Willis of the Jordan River and the song was loosely based on the passage in the Bible that speaks of the Prophet Elijah being taken to heaven in a chariot.

The song was adopted by England Rugby Union fans during the last match of the 1988 season and recorded by the band UB40 for the team's performance at the World Cup.

04/08/2011 Related Story: 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot' One Step From Being Official Oklahoma Gospel Song