Norman Greenbaum's 'Spirit in the Sky' Revived with Dolby Atmos Mix and Vinyl Reissue
For over five decades, Norman Greenbaum’s iconic 1969 track “Spirit in the Sky” has resonated with listeners through its vibrant energy and innovative soundscapes. Celebrating this enduring legacy, Craft Recordings is unveiling two significant releases: a newly mixed Dolby Atmos version of the single, now available for streaming and download, and a meticulously crafted vinyl reissue of Greenbaum’s debut album, set to release on June 13, 2025.
The vinyl edition of Spirit in the Sky marks a remarkable return after being out of print for years. This release features a replica tip-on jacket and utilizes lacquers cut directly from the original AAA tapes by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio, ensuring authentic sound reproduction. The album, anchored by the legendary title track, seamlessly blends rock, gospel, and psychedelia, while tracks like “Marcy,” “Tars of India,” and “Skyline” highlight Greenbaum’s distinctive songwriting and eclectic musical range.
Enhancing the listening experience, the Dolby Atmos single offers a spatial audio rendition of “Spirit in the Sky,” allowing fans to immerse themselves in the song’s rich layers and dynamic instrumentation. This advanced audio format elevates the classic track, providing a new dimension to its timeless appeal and showcasing the meticulous attention to detail in its production.
Originally released under Reprise Records, “Spirit in the Sky” quickly ascended to global acclaim, topping charts in multiple countries and selling over two million copies worldwide. The song’s unique fusion of genres and its memorable guitar hooks have cemented its place in pop culture, featuring in numerous films, advertisements, and television shows, and earning a spot on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
The upcoming vinyl reissue and the Dolby Atmos release honor the pioneering spirit of Norman Greenbaum’s work, offering both longtime fans and new listeners an opportunity to experience “Spirit in the Sky” in enhanced formats. Pre-orders for the vinyl edition are now open, with the release scheduled for June 13, 2025.
