The Rance Allen Group, I Stood On The Banks of Jordan

In the 35^th edition of COVERS (2025), The Rance Allen Group delivers a compelling rendition of “I Stood On The Banks of Jordan,” originally performed by Rev. James Cleveland.

Ah, it’s time to get cozy and cover up! In COVERS, we highlight a musician or band covering songs by another musician (likely a popular musician). COVERS focuses solely on the musician who covers.  It is open to established musicians and musicians who may not be as well-known. In the 35^th  edition of COVERS (2025), The Rance Allen Group delivers a compelling rendition of “I Stood On The Banks of Jordan”, originally performed by Rev. James Cleveland.

“I had to stand on the shore and watch Zion’s ships go sailing over.”

The Rance Allen Group was one of gospel’s most influential groups, led by the late, great Bishop Rance Allen (1948 – 2020).  Allen’s voice was nothing short of anointed, making him one of the most versatile singers you’ll ever hear.  The COGIC bishop and musician extraordinaire covered “I Stood On The Banks of Jordan”, a classic penned and originally recorded by another gospel legend, Rev. James Cleveland (1931 – 1991). “I Stood On the Banks of Jordan” is the 14^th track on The Rance Allen Group’s 2014 album, Celebrate (Deluxe Edition).

Much of “I Stood On the Banks of Jordan” is tried and true with the original.  The introduction, excerpted above, marks a contrast, yet matches Rev. James Cleveland’s knack for ministering in addition to singing.  The sound of the record is updated. It represents 21^st-century recording technology and the contemporary gospel music sound.  Contributing to the celestial, harmonious, and melodious nature of the song is a warm backdrop, comprising keyboards, organ, guitar, bass, drums, horns, and strings. The straw that stirs the drink is Rance Allen, with his dynamic lead vocals. He sounds commanding and gritty, showcasing top-notch musicianship. Allen brings some terrific ad-libs, nuances, and runs, particularly at the end of the record. The Rance Allen Group provides awesome background vocals.  The vocal harmonies are chilling.  Even with the source material remaining tried and true overall, I like the tweaks made by the group, including some additional background vocals. There is great vamping on “See those ships go by” by the support vocals of the group while Rance riffs. A marvelous cover of a traditional black gospel gem, Allen easily proves he was a far more complete and versatile vocalist than Cleveland, whose own gravelly voice was incredibly distinct and influential in its own right. This 2010s rendition of “I Stood On The Banks of Jordan” is nothing short of special.