Fisk Jubilee Singers
The History
Who are the Fisk Jubilee Singers?
The Fisk Jubilee Singers are an African-American college based vocal group. This choral ensemble specializes in traditional negro spirituals. These songs were primarily sung as motivational odes and hymns throughout slavery. In a more modern sense, these songs ruminated throughout African-American churches all over the nation.
Where did they begin?
Fisk Jubilee Singers began at Fisk University in Nashville, TN. 1871 this group was founded by George L. White, a professor at Fisk University. The Fisk Jubilee Singers became one of the first collective Black vocal groups and began their journey as a monumental group in Black music.
Discography: Notable Songs & Albums
- Celebrating Fisk!
- Sacred Jurney
- Roll Jordan Roll
- Disk Jubilee Singers Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3
Honors & Awards
- Grammy Award (2021)
- Best roots gospel album
- Legacy of Americana Award
- Grammy Hall of Fame (2015)
- National Medal of Arts (2008)
Notable Performances
- 1871: Concert funds were donated to the families of the Chicago fire
- 1872: World Peace Festival in Boston
- 1873: First international tour (Europe)
- Funds were used to build Fisk’s first permanent building- Jubilee Hall
Fisk Jubilee Singers: Where are they now?
Today The Fisk Jubilee Singers remain composed of Fisk University students who create a unique 11 member vocal ensemble. Specializing in “slave songs,” commonly referred to as negro spirituals, this group continues to carry on traditional African-American music. They perform on big stages and have even received awards for their work.
