The History and Significance of Gospel Music
The presence of Gospel music has proven to be an unwavering pillar in the Black community. Dating all the way back from the 18th and 19th Century, Negro Spirituals and the influence of religion have played a huge role in the establishment of Gospel music as a genre. Enslaved African Americans would create spirituals (songs) that were expressions of hope, adversity, and freedom. The songs often concealed messages about escaping enslavement and living a life of freedom.
In the late 19th century (post-emancipation), the construction and establishment of Black churches played a huge role in the rise/development of gospel music. Black churches and the Black church experience became identified with the strong, joyous identity of Gospel music. At its core, the Black church is directly linked to the role that community and kinship play inside of the Black community. The lived and shared experiences of Black people in church are indubitably shared and cherished.
How Gospel Music Shows Up in Mainstream Media
Gospel music has seeped into many different facets of mainstream media. Gospel shows up in platforms such as television, film, a multitude of streaming services, and social media. We are living in an era that is quite literally defined by technology. So, the dispersal of Gospel music amongst the Black community and beyond is largely because of the impact of social media on society. Black Gospel music continues to defy the odds and integrate itself into so many platforms.
Gospel's Presence at Spelman
Gospel Music at Spelman is hugely prominent. Gospel music is intertwined with Spelman’s rich legacy, culture, history, and her committment to the African American community. The Spelman College Glee Club was founded in 1924, and is one of the oldest college choirs, mainly occupied by Black women, in the United States. The Glee Club performs a variety of musical genres, however, there is a strong emphasis on Negro Spirituals and Gospel music.
