For over 50 years, Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit in the Sky” has remained one of those rare songs that never fades from the cultural conversation. With its unmistakable guitar fuzz and gospel-tinged harmonies, the 1969 hit has soundtracked everything from Guardians of the Galaxy to Apollo 13—and still feels as bold and joyful as the day it arrived.
Now, Craft Recordings is celebrating the song’s enduring legacy with two special releases:
- A new Dolby Atmos® mix of the single—available to stream now
- And a vinyl reissue of Greenbaum’s debut album Spirit in the Sky, out June 13
The album has been newly cut from the original analog tapes (AAA) by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio and is housed in a replica tip-on jacket.
A SONG THAT SOUNDED LIKE NOTHING ELSE
“Spirit in the Sky” first landed in December 1969 and quickly became a global phenomenon—hitting No.1 across the U.S., U.K., Australia, Ireland, and beyond. At a time when most singles were under three minutes, Greenbaum’s fuzzed-out, four-minute anthem broke the mold with its mix of psychedelic rock, gospel vocals (courtesy of The Stovall Sisters), and unforgettable guitar tone.
The song was a creative leap for Greenbaum, who had previously been known for “The Eggplant That Ate Chicago” with his earlier band Dr. West’s Medicine Show and Junk Band. Working with producer Erik Jacobsen (The Lovin’ Spoonful), Greenbaum brought the spirit of gospel into a rock context—blending humor, reverence, and sonic experimentation in a way that felt totally new.
THE ALBUM BEHIND THE ANTHEM
Released just months before the single took off, Greenbaum’s full-length debut Spirit in the Sky is a kaleidoscope of sounds and styles—far more than a one-song album. It opens with the R&B-leaning “Junior Cadillac,” veers into breezy psych-pop with “Marcy,” and explores funky country-rock and gentle AM-radio ballads across the rest of its 10-track run.
Long out-of-print, the album has become something of a cult favorite, praised by critics for its eclecticism and spirit. Legendary rock critic Robert Christgau called “Marcy” a “great lost album track,” while Rolling Stone and others have noted the LP’s blend of grit, groove, and charm.
A CULTURAL FIXTURE
Over the decades, “Spirit in the Sky” has proven to be more than just a hit—it’s become a pop culture staple. It’s appeared in dozens of films, shows, and ads; topped the U.K. charts multiple times (with different versions); and been covered by artists ranging from Elton John to Bauhaus. Even Fall Out Boy sampled it.
Today, the song continues to resonate across generations, appearing on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” and earning praise for its swagger and genre-defying originality.
"I'm humbled and deeply grateful that 'Spirit in the Sky' continues to connect with people. It means so much that people have taken the song to heart, and I'm excited to see its journey continue." - Norman Greenbaum (2025)
