The history of black gospel music is connected with the African American experience in the United States. Gospel music has its roots in the negro spirituals sung by enslaved Africans in the 18th and 19th centuries. These songs often express deep religious faith, hope for freedom, and a sense of community. Spirituals were often expressed deep religious faith, hope for freedom, and a sense of community. Spirituals were characterized by how emotional intensity they usually are and use of call-and-response patterns, which reflected African musical traditions.