Black Gospel Music Artists
There are hundreds of gospel music artists,but only a handful has changed the way people listen to the music,understand it and enjoy it. These artists have successfully blurred the lines of musical genres and led to the birth of a generation that enjoys music of all types. Who are some of the famous Black Gospel musical artists that have made their mark in the world?
Aretha Franklin – This well-known American singer was also a pianist,actress and civil rights activist. Her career in Soul originated from the Gospel music she was exposed to as a child in the church. Her father was a minister at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit,where she started her singing career. Although it took time for her career to take off,she eventually became known as the “Queen of Soul.”
Thomas Dorsey – This well-known American singer was also a huge Christian evangelist influence on the foundation of 20th-century gospel music. As a child of a religious family,he gained more of his fame by playing blues at Atlanta’s parties and barrelhouses. However,Dorsey experienced a spiritual awakening that caused him to write and sing religious and Gospel music. He noted no difference between church music and blues and saw Gospel music as a supplement to word preaching.
Sister Rosetta Tharpe – She was an American recording artist,singer,songwriter and guitarist,who gained popularity throughout the 30s and 40s for her gospel recordings. She blended the spiritual lyrics and rhythms,pioneering the Rock & Roll musical genre. Tharpe is known as a “Grandmother of Rock & Roll,” and she was one of the first Gospel musicians to be accepted by a wider audience.