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.

Within this Series

Little Drummer Boy | Bill Pinkney | Digital Traditions

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Song excerpt from Bill Pinkney and the Original Drifters Anthology

Im Tired Of Being Your Fool | Bill Pinkney | Digital Traditions

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Song excerpt from Bill Pinkney and the Original Drifters Anthology

Gonna Move Across the River | Bill Pinkney | Digital Traditions

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Song excerpt from Bill Pinkney and the Original Drifters Anthology

Silent Night | Bill Pinkney | Digital Traditions

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Song excerpt from Bill Pinkney and the Original Drifters Anthology

Hear My Prayer, Lord | Digital Tradition

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One of the choirs that sang in the Sunday afternoon “Gospel Extravaganza” portion of the Williamsburg County Black Heritage Festival in Kingstree, SC.

Master, I Know You Can | Digital Tradition

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One of the choirs that sang in the Sunday afternoon “Gospel Extravaganza” portion of the Williamsburg County Black Heritage Festival in Kingstree, SC.

You Can't Hide | Digital Tradition

Audio

One of the choirs that sang in the Sunday afternoon “Gospel Extravaganza” portion of the Williamsburg County Black Heritage Festival in Kingstree, SC.