It was written by American social justice advocate and at-the-time Roman Catholic seminarian, Ray Repp (1942-2020).
It was first published by FEL Publications Ltd, USA in 1967. Sheet-music was included in the Hymnal for Young Christians, Volume 2, and the song was included in the album, "Come Alive With Ray Repp", released in the same year by FEL Records (ref).
No further publications, or in-print versions have been found: if you know where to find the guitar chords for the song, or a better version of the sheet music, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the screen.
The song is set to an unnamed tune, also by Repp. This has cut-common (2/2) time signature. In the key of C, the first few notes of the melody are cc cG C_ CEF G_
The song is set to an unnamed tune, also by Repp. This has cut-common (2/2) time signature. In the key of C, the first few notes of the melody are cc cG C_ CEF G_
Downloads
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Examples
Professional recording from The Best of Ray Repp
Original recording
Music video by a group of 21st century seminarians - words on-screen
Choir, with guitar
Lyrics
The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website. A rough outline is:Chorus:
To be alive (to be alive)
and feelin' free (and feeling free)
And to have everyone in our family,
To be alive in every way!
Oh, how great it is to be alive!
1. Every day there's newness,
Something else to do.
The dawn of life is upon us,
So let the gladness ring through.
2. Wake up to a new sunshine;
Darkness no longer stays.
For the new generation
Will light the world today.
3. Tell the whole population,
The time has now arrived.
We must learn the sensation
That comes with being alive!
4. Ring the bell of new freedom,
Teach your brother to live.
For the real joy of living
Is something we can now give!
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