Traditional Gospel Roots
By definition, the term ‘tradition’ refers to “A custom or knowledge handed down orally,” which fits perfectly within the topic of traditional gospel music. Gospel, meaning “good news”, derived its name from its close relation to the gospels of St. Matthew, St. Mark, St. Luke and St. John. As we look at the recurring themes of these gospels, we find many references to the goodness and mercy of God, much like the themes of gospel music today. The “good news” music, therefore, is more than just music that uplifts the soul and is soothing to the ear; it is a form of ‘oral’ communication between human and God the Father, a verbal commitment to the expression of worship and thanksgiving, transcending the man made restraints of creed, denomination or origin. So, whom and what are involved in the tradition behind the tradition?
Thomas A. Dorsey(1899-1993) is considered by many gospel devotees to be the human “Father of Gospel Music”. The son of a minister, Dorsey was a dedicated musician and as a young man accompanied some of the greatest and most famous blues singers of all time. These included Ma Rainy (1886-1939) and Bessie Smith (1894-1937). However, despite the sincere message of God behind the “good news”, this uplifting genre, and all that were associated, became subject to attack. The merging of the secular jazz and blues, with the sacred hymns and spirituals became branded as anything but Godly. The church, by its operation, declared Dorsey’s brand of music unworthy of being heard within the sanctuaries of the time; they failed to observe the far from negative influence that gospel music could have, by edifying its listeners and encouraging and strengthening a relationship with God.
Since Thomas Dorsey first stretched the restrictions to create gospel music, choirs, quartets and inspirational vocalists have been singing the same song of hope and salvation through Jesus Christ. From the soul and spirit lifting sounds and beats of artists, such as Kirk Franklin and Yolanda Adams, to the life changing and repentance causing words of songs by the likes of Fred Hammond and Donnie McClurkin, there is a song for every mood or situation, making the notes of the “good news” more than just another genre or style of music; gospel music is a genre of life, for both the traditional and modern day Christian.
La-Keshia Bannis
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