What is Gospel music?
When I think of Gospel music I think of feel good music. These songs you hear in church or on the radio while you drive in the car. These songs can make me feel the spirit. Gospel has been influenced by jazz, rock, and pop. The most important thing about gospel music is the soothing lyrics. The foundation of gospel is Negro Spirituals which we covered earlier this semester. This music is used to make you feel good whether you are feeling bad or great. Gospel songs are usually long and have a singer in the front with a choir in the back as compared to elements we saw in negro spirituals.
Cece Winas
Cece Winas was born on October 8, 1964 in Detroit, Michigan. Winas is a gospel singer and the sister a part of the Winas dynasty. She has won 12 Grammy awards and is the best selling female gospel artist of all time. She was the best friend of famous singer Whitney Houston. She started her career in 1984. She is still singing today. She has sang solo and with her family who are also famous gospel singers.
Tasha Cobbs
Tasha Cobbs was born Natasha Tameika Cobbs. She goes by the stage name Tasha Cobbs. She was born on July 7, 1981. She grew up in the church , and this is where she fostered her love for singing. She currently is a worship leader at a church in Atlanta, Georgia. She has many songs, you may know her song “Break Every Chain.”
Old Gospel vs. New Gospel
Above I have chosen two great gospel artists. These gospel artists are both active and pioneers of their time. Old gospel and new gospel is very different. Gospel today is not the same as it used to be 20 years ago. The way songs are performed and sang are different. I notice a few differences, but they both make my spirit happy. Gospel has changed today to appeal to younger audiences and are usually more upbeat. Old gospel is normally slower and longer.
Influences
Gospel is fully influenced by Negro Spirituals. Gospel songs are written to give thanks to God. These songs make you feel good and make you feel like brighter days are coming. If it had not been for negro spirituals there might not be the genre of Gospel.
Conclusion
This post I would have to say is my favorite. I love gospel music and can definitely tell a difference. I think the differences are for the better. I love new gospel, but I love my old gospel as well. Gospel songs make me feel so good. If we did not have gospel music I know for sure I would be lost.