Since when did rocks cry out? Where on earth did this idea even come from? Straight from the Bible, that’s where. This piece is in the tradition of a true spiritual but has a known author, Hall Johnson. I had a hard time nailing down whether or not Johnson actually wrote the song or simply arranged it, but I managed to come across this clear statement: “’Ain’t Got Time to Die’ is an original Spiritual with words and music by Hall Johnson.” (“The Hall Johnson Concert Spirituals“) Let me quote Mr. Johnson himself on the subject of this music:
True enough, this music was transmitted to us through humble channels, but its source is that of all great art everywhere—the unquenchable, divinely human longing for a perfect realization of life. It traverses every shade of emotion without spilling over in any direction. Its most tragic utterances are without pessimism, and its lightest, brightest moments have nothing to do with frivolity. In its darkest expressions there is always a hope, and in its gayest measures a constant reminder. Born out of the heart-cries of a captive people who still did not forget how to laugh, this music covers an amazing range of mood. Nevertheless, it is always serious music and should be performed seriously, in the spirit of its original conception. (Wikipedia)