What makes That's the Way God Planned It by Billy Preston notable?

The album is notable for its commercial success, peaking at number 22 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart and receiving widespread acclaim from critics. Its title track became an anthem of unity and faith, further cementing Preston's position as a key figure in bridging gospel music with mainstream rock. That's the Way God Planned It was released during Billy Preston's ascent in the late 1960s, following his collaborations with The Beatles and his breakout appearance on their album Let It Be. This album marked his first foray into leading his own project after gaining recognition as a session musician, solidifying his role as a prominent artist in the soul and gospel genres.

Who is That's the Way God Planned It for?

That's the Way God Planned It works well if you're into uplifting sing-along moments, joyful energy for gatherings and short bursts of positivity.

How many songs are on That's the Way God Planned It?

That's the Way God Planned It has 15 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

That's the Way God Planned It

Billy Preston · 1969

51 min · 15 tracks · blues

A vibrant blend of gospel-infused soul and rock rhythms, showcasing Preston's virtuosic keyboard work and uplifting vocal delivery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Want to Thank You — This track stands out for its infectious groove and heartfelt lyrics, embodying the album’s themes of gratitude and spirituality. Its upbeat tempo and powerful vocal delivery showcase Preston's unique ability to blend gospel fervor with pop sensibility.
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That’s the Way God Planned It, Parts 1 & 2 — As the title track, this song encapsulates the album’s overarching message of divine purpose and community. Its intricate arrangement features dynamic shifts between soulful verses and anthemic choruses that highlight Preston's musical versatility.
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Let Us All Get Together Right Now — This song serves as a call for unity and collective action, resonating deeply during the socio-political climate of the late '60s. Its spirited melody and communal vibe reflect Preston’s commitment to using music as a means of bringing people together.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and musicianship but lacks a fully cohesive flow across its length.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of call-and-response vocals, particularly in tracks like 'I Want to Thank You' and 'Let Us All Get Together Right Now'.
Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections that highlight Preston's keyboard skills, especially in 'That's the Way God Planned It'.
The running time includes multiple interludes and transitions between songs that maintain a lively tempo throughout the first half of the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

uplifting sing-along moments
joyful energy for gatherings
short bursts of positivity
celebratory vibes throughout
warmth for community connection

Maybe skip if you

prefer long introspective pieces
seek heavy lyrical depth

Where this album fits

Career context: That's the Way God Planned It was released during Billy Preston's ascent in the late 1960s, following his collaborations with The Beatles and his breakout appearance on their album Let It Be. This album marked his first foray into leading his own project after gaining recognition as a session musician, solidifying his role as a prominent artist in the soul and gospel genres.
Stylistic neighbors: Stevie Wonder· Ray Charles· Sly and the Family Stone

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Everything’s All Right

The transition in the chorus emphasizes a shift from uncertainty to reassurance, capturing a moment of clarity amidst chaos.

This choice to juxtapose hope against life's challenges signifies a pivotal emotional turning point within the song.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Do What You Want 3:44
2 I Want to Thank You 3:12
3 Everything’s All Right 2:44
4 She Belongs to Me 4:09
5 It Doesn’t Matter 2:41
6 Morning Star 3:20
7 Hey Brother 2:34
8 What About You? 2:10
9 Let Us All Get Together Right Now 4:06
10 This Is It 2:45
11 Keep It to Yourself 2:37
12 That’s the Way God Planned It, Parts 1 & 2 5:34
13 Through All Times 3:59
14 As I Get Older 3:42
15 That’s the Way God Planned It (alternate version) 4:13

What to play next

Listen next

Encouraging Words

1970

Go back to

Greazee Soul

1969

Full Billy Preston discography Artists like Billy Preston

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata