2. Gospel music is a diverse genre of music. It has many
influences from rock, pop, jazz and all- around contemporary music.
The most important part of gospel music is the lyrics. Precious
Lord, take my hand Lead me on, let me standI am tired, I amweak, I
am worn. Through the storm, through the nightLead me on to the
light. Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home -Thomas A.
Dorsey
3. The foundation for gospel music is Negro Spirituals. Negro
Spiritual were often used to provide strength and hope of one day
being free of oppression. They were sung acapella before
instruments became common in church. The Fisk Jubilee Singers,
begin singing and making negro spirituals known throughout America
during the 1800s.
4. Thomas Dorsey established a publishing house and created the
common gospel piano style. He was known for developing great gospel
artist careers He is known as the godfather of gospel music and
contributed greatly to the foundation of all gospel music.
5. James Cleveland, a staple in the gospel music genre, wrote
many gospel hits in the 1950s. He established the Gospel Music
Workshop of America- the biggest gospel convention for gospel
artist and is still the number one convention that caters to gospel
musicians and artist
6. The style of directing a gospel choir was popularized by
Olanda Draper and Mattie Moss- Clark. Draper directed his class
with sass and demeanor. He demanded sincere performance and best
vocal quality. Clark developed the common 3-part harmony of gospel
music. She lead on to bore one of the most dynamic female gospel
groups of today, The Clark Sisters.
7. Gospel music has come a long way from the standard hymns and
spirituals of the earlychurch. It continues to evolve into a
mainstream style, devoted to spreading the knowledge of
Christianity and inspiration through song.