African American Gospel draws inspiration from spiritual music and negro spirituals, reflecting a deep connection with God and biblical themes. In the 1930s, gospel music diversified into Hymnal Style, Soul Style, and Exuberant Style, marking a notable shift in its sound. Thomas A. Dorsey, hailed as the Father of Gospel Music, played a pivotal role in shaping the genre by infusing spirituals with a jazz influence.
The link between Gospel Music and The Jubilee Quartet is distinctive, with the quartet significantly influencing the sound and production of Gospel Music. Originating in the late 19th century, Jubilee Quartets, like the one from Fisk University in 1871, performed a blend of spiritual and early African-American Gospel arrangements. The term “Jubilee” symbolizes freedom, resonating with the challenges faced post-Slavery. Notably, these quartets, including the Birmingham Jubilee Singers, The Selah Jubilee Singers, Norfolk Jazz, and others, emerged in support of historically black Universities and College Choirs, contributing to the evolution of Gospel Music.
