Historic Moments of Gospel Music
Gospel music is a traditional genre of Christian music. The creation, performance, significance, and even the definition of gospel music varies according to culture and social context.
Gospel music has had a significant impact on certain areas of music around the world, particularly in America where we have seen an influx of Gospel music and artists. What would come to mind if we asked you for some of the biggest Gospel music moments? Here are some of ours.
Thomas A. Dorsey’s impact on Gospel Music
Thomas A. Dorsey was an American musician and composer that played a heavy role in early blues and gospel music in the 20th century. He is one of the most influential players when it comes to making Gospel music more widespread in the 1930s. He is known as being the ‘Father of Gospel’ due to his work and dedication towards building the sound of Gospel music and blues.
Martin Luther King Jr. being influenced by Gospel Music
Mahalia Jackson, otherwise known as the Queen of Gospel was a friend of Martin Luther King Jr. and helped him through some dark times with gospel music. She spent time alongside him for massive demonstrations and supported him throughout, so it's no surprise that she had a big impact on one of the most influential moments in civil rights.
Mahalia decided mid speech that his speech needed to go in a particular direction, and by recollecting a theme she had heard before. She shouted “Tell them about the dream, Martin” from behind the podium, which led to Dr King leaving his notes behind and began his famous “I have a dream” speech.
Gospel Choir performing at the the Royal Wedding of Harry and Meghan
The Kingdom Choir made their mark on British history and Gospel history by being the first Gospel Choir to perform at the Royal Wedding. The choir performed a rendition of Ben E. King’s song “Stand By Me”, which led to a massive impact for the choir, including being signed by Sony Music and millions of streams worldwide.
Lauryn Hill performs ‘Joyful, Joyful’ in Sister Act 2
Hollywood has been known to not champion music from people of colour, but they were not able to deny the beauty of Gospel music in this movie. Lauryn Hill performing ‘Joyful, Joyful’ in the Sister Act 2 movie was a big moment for Gospel music and musicians of colour.
As well as Lauryn Hill’s undeniable vocal ability and talent, the song brought in a new audience for Gospel music and was a monumental moment in history.
Stormzy performs ‘Blinded By Your Grace Pt 2’ at Glastonbury
Grime artist Stormzy performs ‘Blinded By Your Grace Pt 2’ at Glastonbury, with Gospel music being performed for over 100,000 people at one of the biggest festivals in the UK. His performance began with ‘we’re going to take this to church, and we’re going to give God all the glory right now’.