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.

Malloy Family Singers Photos | Digital Traditions
Malloy Family Singers Photos | Digital Traditions

Photo

The Malloy Family Singers, of Chesterfield in Chesterfield County, have been performing gospel music together for over twenty years. Their repertoire encompasses traditional and contemporary music of...
Oh Freedom -2 | Digital Traditions

Audio

This recording consists of songs predominately created, nurtured, and encouraged by Black Americans. "Negro" spirituals are musical derivations of Africanic arts coupled with the love, power, and...
Oh, How I Love Jesus | Digital Traditions

Audio

Produced by the Jackson Brothers and digitally mastered by Eric Rogers for Blackbyrd Records. The Jackson Brothers are Leroy Gilliard, Elliot Goodlett, Walter Thompson, Sr., Roosevelt Baker, Oscar...