Gospel
Thomas A. Dorsey: Traditional Gospel artist "The Father of Gospel" (July 1, 1899 - January 23, 1993)
Gospel Music emerged in urban centers during the early decades of the 20th Century. Gospel music is a genre that derives from African American culture and history. This genre of music is still popular amongst African American Christians. Some notable Gospel artist such as Kirk Franklin, The Clark Sisters, Tye Tribbett, etc. have managed to become well know throughout the music industry and Black churches.
Walter Hawkins: Traditional Gospel artist (May 18, 1949-July 11, 2010)
A Few Different Gospel terminology:
- Store Front Church: a small and independent congregation that meets in a retail or commercial space instead of a physical church building. Theses small congregations often aim to serve local communities, offering worship services, religious education, and community outreach
- Speaking in tongues: Speaking in “tongues” is a form of communication that some Black Christians use to spiritual communicate with the Holy Spirit. This practice is very common in the Pentecostal and COGIC churches.
- Call – Response: Call and Response is a singing tactic that African American Gospel artists use in the songs and choirs. The lead singer of the choir will sing out a word or sentence and in response, the choir and or congregation would respond with the same word/sentence OR a different response in unison.
Examples of Traditional Gospel and Contemporary Gospel
Traditional vs. Contemporary Gospel:
The difference between traditional and contemporary gospel music lies primarily in musical style, instrumentation, and cultural influences, while both share a common focus on Christian themes and worship, Traditional Gospel specifically is rooted in African American spirituals, blues, and hymns. However, Contemporary Gospel blends gospel with modern sounds (R&B, Hip Hop, etc.) to be more appealing to to a broader audience.
Tye Tribbett: Contemporary Gospel artist (January 26, 1976- Current)
BeBe & CeCe Winans: Brother and Sister Contemporary Gospel group (October 8, 1964 - Current & September 17, 1962 - Current)
Kirk Franklin: Contemporary Gospel Artist: (January 26, 1970 - Current)
