THE HISTORY OF GOSPEL MUSIC

It started out somehow as an oppressed emotion. That feeling could not be audibly heard but only observed by a movement, a rock or a sway. Before a moan ever came out, oppression and sorrow gave birth to a truly original music form. Other than Native American music, gospel music (in particular, slave songs and Negro spirituals) is the original form of American folk music. From Negro spirituals to traditional hymns; quartet groups to contemporary gospel music, the indelible sound of Black Gospel Music can be accredited to the descendents of African American Slaves. Even after two hundred years, it is still unsurpassed worldwide and defies description. It’s unmistakable power reaches heavenward and is celestial.

I have often been asked in workshops and lectures. “What is Gospel Music?” The word gospel is derived from the Greek word euaggelion which means “good news” and is often defined as spreading the news of Jesus Christ. Gospel music can be imitated and copied; but to effectively deliver gospel music, one must have had a religious experience. For this reason; the descendants of African American  slaves, through their religious journey, will always be the heartbeat and soul of black gospel music.

The Harlem GospeLive Revue attempts to provide the audience with a unique revue that orientates new ears, and blesses the true believer, with music of the African American religious experience. From this birth and legacy came, Blues, Jazz, R&B, and Hip Hop, to tell the story of a people. Even Rock and Roll was inspired by gospel.

The contributions of African Americans to the world history of music is unprecedented. African American vocal styles have set the template for others to follow. Black vocal styles are studied and copied worldwide and have become a true American icon setting the tone for the twentieth century.

“For from their souls do they sing…. But not only from their souls… but from the spirit… of the souls of their ancestors”