Music is a language that can speak to souls like no other our heart medium can. While many musical genres have come and gone over the years, gospel music has remained a constant source of hope and comfort for many. Traditionally, this soulful genre found its home in Christian churches. However, in recent years, gospel music has entered mainstream culture. How did this happen? Let’s journey through the rise of gospel music in popular culture!
WHERE DID GOSPEL MUSIC COME FROM?
Gospel music has a long and illustrious history that can be traced back to the African-American church. Emerging from a community hoping for freedom and a voice, this genre beautifully embraced the “call and response” style that is characteristic of traditional African music. This is where a chorus of voices would answer one lead singer’s call. Soon enough, this singing style became essential to church gatherings and services. In the 20th century, we witnessed the spread of the gospel beyond church doors. This influential music laid the foundation for the rise of other genres like R&B, blues, and even the iconic rock ‘n’ roll. Moreover, music legends like Elvis Presley and Ray Charles incorporated gospel into their music. This played a big role in introducing gospel sounds to larger audiences.
WHEN DID THE GOSPEL GO MAINSTREAM?
By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the line between gospel music and other popular musical genres became blurry. Notable musicians like Aretha Franklin,
who had religious upbringings as children, played a significant role in pushing gospel music into the mainstream. Regardless of their religious beliefs, many were touched by Franklin’s rendition of classics like “Amazing Grace.” The film industry also helped drive the popularity of gospel music. Movies like “Sister Act” and “The Preacher’s Wife” brought more attention to gospel music. They showed that the gospel was not only for Sunday morning church services but could be relatable and enjoyable to diverse audiences.
GOSPEL MUSIC TODAY IS EVERYWHERE AND FOR EVERYONE.
The footprints of gospel music are found everywhere in modern popular culture. Artists like KanyeWest have even produced gospel-centric albums like “Jesus Is King,” which topped the charts worldwide in 2019. We see a consistent presence of gospel elements within today’s most popular music genres, from hip-hop to pop. This fusion is not just about adding church choirs to songs. Instead, the focus is on incorporating the emotion and spirit of gospel music into many pop and hip-hop songs that play on radio stations and in clubs worldwide. Reality TV shows like “Sunday Best,” which focuses on finding the west-undiscovered gospel talent in America, have made even more people aware of gospel music. Shows like these not only entertain but introduce young people to the gospel, which is essential to the genre’s continued evolution and relevance.
THE UNIVERSAL APPEAL OF GOSPEL MUSIC
Considering gospel’s widespread appeal, you might ask, “Why is gospel music loved by so many?” The answer lies in the universality of its themes. Gospel music is about hope, redemption, life’s trials, and triumphs. It is more than just Christian beliefs. It mirrors shared human experiences, emotions, and journeys. Its profound emotional depth allows it to forge connections across varied listeners. It reminds people that even in a world full of strife and filled with uncertainty and challenges, hope and a higher power are looking out for us.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
The journey of gospel music is impressive. It moved from church benches to big concert stages around the world. One truth stays the same as it changes and grows— gospel music touches our hearts. No matter who we are or where we come from, gospel music has something for everyone.
