Gospel music is the more modern religious music. clearly influenced by negro spirituals there are often songs sharing stories and prophecies from the bible. This music includes characteristics such as call and response, ad-libbing, a band including drums, guitar, bass guitar, piano etc. The songs may often speak about the relationships with God and my be forms of praise and worship.
In the 80 there where many influential performers.
- Yolanda Adams who released her first album Just as I Am in 1987, which peaked at number 8 on the U.S. Billboard Top Gospel Albums Chart.
- Bebe & Cece Winans who’s 1988 album Heaven peaked at the number one position on the U.S. Billboard Top Gospel Albums Chart.
- Take 6 who’s album Take 6 was released in 1988. That same year they were nominated Best New Artist.
- Al Green’s album Higher Plane earned him a Grammy in the Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album category in 1982.
- In 1980 Shirley Caesar’s album Rejoice earned her a Grammy in the Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album category.
Some gospel singles during the 80s include - “Jesus is Love” released in 1980 by the Commodores
- Take 6’s song “Take 6” won a Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance in 1988.
- Take 6’s song “The Savior is Waiting” won a Grammy Award for Best Gospel Performance in 1988.
Gospel music can be distinguished from negro spirituals because it incorporates the stylings of the blues and jazz genres. The lyrics are often testimonies, prophecies and conversations that writers have with God.
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