Gospel/Spirituals

Music that explores themes of Christian belief and biblical history, and is popular among black and whites alike. Their renditions may differ significantly, in keeping with the cultural/stylistic traits of blues and old-time coun¬try/bluegrass, respectively. Early African American spirituals, church hymnody, and blues formed the basis for the rise of gospel music in the 1930s. Sacred music has many stylistic variations – 3 and 4 part harmony, shape-note, common meter hymn choir, call-and-response, and praise house are all a part of gospel’s foundation.

Content is provided by McKissick Museum, University of South Carolina.

For further information about any of the artists featured on Digital Traditions, send your questions and comments to hallagan@mailbox.sc.edu.

Elaborate Dress | Digital Traditions
Episode 1

Video

Marlena McGhee Smalls discusses the reason why the singers wear such elaborate clothing while on stage. From "Voices of the Gullah Culture: Hallelujah Singers." WJWJ-TV Beaufort, SC and SCETV, 1993.
Glory, Glory | Digital Traditions

Video

The Chosen Sisters performing in 1992 at the "Heritage of Song" concert hosted by McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina. Co-produced by South Carolina Educational Television.
Lord Search My Heart | Digital Traditions

Video

The Malloy Family Singers performing in 1992 at the "Heritage of Song" concert hosted by McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina. Co-produced by South Carolina Educational Television.
Old Man River | Digital Traditions

Video

Smith singing at the 1988 Harborwalk Festival in Georgetown, SC. Aired on "Midday 5" program with WCSC-TV in Charleston, South Carolina