Gospel Music Songs for Funerals
Contents
Looking for the perfect gospel music to play at a funeral? We’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the best gospel songs for funerals.
What is gospel music?
Gospel music is a genre of Christian music. The creation, performance, significance, and even the definition of gospel music varies according to culture and social context. Gospel music is composed and performed for many purposes, including aesthetic pleasure, religious or ceremonial purposes, and as an entertainment product for the marketplace.
The history of gospel music
Gospel music is a genre of Christian music. The creation, performance, significance, and even the definition of gospel music varies according to culture and social context. Gospel music is composed and performed for many purposes, including aesthetic pleasure, religious or ceremonial purposes, and as an entertainment product for the marketplace. Gospel music usually has dominant vocals (often with strong use of harmony) with Christian lyrics. Gospel music can be traced to the early 17th century, with roots in the black oral tradition. Hymns and sacred songs were often repeated in a call and response fashion. Most of the churches relied on hand clapping and foot stomping as rhythmic accompaniment. Congregational singing was characteristic of Protestants of the Reformation era. The first published use of the term “gospel song” probably appeared in 1874 when Philip Bliss released a songbook entitled Gospel Songs. A collection of songs, mostly hymns, each penalizing different points during a service designed to help every follower feel involved no matter where they were seated within a large audience setting.
During the 2nd half of the 20th century, gospel music moved into the mainstream church making much progress toward racial equality within Christianity starting in 1948 with Mahalia Jackson singing “I Found The Answer” (a reference to finding equality through Jesus Christ) at the first integrated Presidential Inauguration prayer service followed by Jackson’s participation in Martin Luther King’s 1963 civil rights march on Washington D.C.. resulting in King saying that Jackson had “the voice of an angel”. In more recent years current artists such as Kirk Franklin, Smokie Norful , Yolanda Adams , James Fortune & FIYA , Shirley Ceasar , Marvin Sapp , Hezekiah Walker & LFC Dorinda Clark-Cole , James Cleveland , Shirley Caesar , Andrae Crouch have broadened gospel music’s audience by cross over into secular markets while still maintaining strong Christian/gospel core audiences resulting in songs such as Kirk Franklin & The Family’s 1995 hit “Stomp” crossing over onto pop radio stations while still being played weekly on urban gospel radio stations such as Chicago’s WGRB 1390AM which has been broadcasting live Since 1926 & Atlanta’s WAMJ 107.5FM which has been broadcasting since 1961 . In addition streaming services such as Pandora & Spotify have also played a major role by creating platforms where listeners can enjoy gospel music without having to purchase complete albums thus increasing play counts & overall artist awareness world wide especially among younger generations who listen to less traditional forms of media .
The different types of gospel music
though there are many different types of gospel music, each style typically includes a number of elements in common. These can include elements such as:
– use of call and response
– heavy use of harmonies
– use of spiritual themes and religious lyrics
– use of different instruments, including guitars, drums, and pianos
There are many different subgenres within gospel music, each with its own unique style and sound. Some of the most popular subgenres include:
– Traditional gospel: This style is often based on the music that was popular in the early 20th century. It typically includes elements such as call and response, heavy harmony, and religious lyrics.
– Contemporary gospel: This more modern style often includes elements such as a focus on individual performance, African American Vernacular English (AAVE), and R&B influences.
– Hip hop gospel: As the name suggests, this style combines elements of hip hop music with traditional gospel themes. It is often seen as a way to reach out to younger audiences.
Why gospel music is popular for funerals
Gospel music has always been popular for funerals because it is a genre that is full of hope and promise. The lyrics of gospel songs often talk about going to heaven and being reunited with loved ones who have passed away. This can be a comfort to people who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
The message of hope and comfort that gospel music provides
Gospel music is often played at funerals because of the message of hope and comfort that it provides. The lyrics of gospel songs often focus on topics such as Eternity, God’s love, and Heaven. These lyrics can help to provide comfort to those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. In addition, the upbeat nature of many gospel songs can help to lift the spirits of those who are mourning.
The connection that gospel music has to the African American community
Gospel music has been a part of the African American experience since the beginning of the 18th century. It is a genre that is deeply rooted in the history and culture of the black community. Gospel music is often referred to as the “sound of black America” because of its ability to capture the emotions and experiences of African Americans.
Gospel music is popular for funerals because it provides comfort and hope to those who are grieving. The lyrics of gospel songs often speak to themes such as death, resurrection, and eternal life. These themes can offer a sense of peace and hope to those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. In addition, gospel music is often seen as a way to celebrate the life of a loved one. The upbeat tempo and positive messages of many gospel songs can help to lift the spirits of those who are grieving.
Gospel music has long been an important part of the African American experience, and it continues to be a source of comfort and inspiration for many people. If you are looking for a way to honor your loved one’s memory, consider attending a funeral service that features gospel music.
The best gospel songs for funerals
Gospel music is a beautiful way to celebrate the life of a loved one who has passed away. There are many different gospel songs that can be sung at a funeral, but some are more popular than others. Here are some of the best gospel songs for funerals.
“Amazing Grace”
The songwriter John Newton was an English slave trader who later became a Christian minister. He wrote the words to “Amazing Grace” in 1779, and the hymn quickly became popular among both Christians and non-Christians. It was even used as a rallying cry by abolitionists during the movement to end slavery in the United States.
The hymn’s simple message of God’s love and forgiveness has resonated with people of all faiths for centuries, making it one of the most popular gospel songs of all time. “Amazing Grace” is often sung at Christian funerals as a reminder of God’s promise of eternal life for those who believe in him.
“Take My Hand, Precious Lord”
One of the most popular gospel songs for funerals, “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” was composed in 1932 by noted Gospel composer Thomas A. Dorsey, in memory of his wife Nettie, who had died giving birth to their son Maurice.
Dorsey began his career as a Jazz musician but found his true calling composing Gospel music. He went on to become one of the most prolific and influential Gospel songwriters of all time, penning classics like “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen” and “Peace in the Valley.”
“Take My Hand, Precious Lord” is a quiet, moving prayer for strength and comfort in difficult times. Mahalia Jackson’s powerful rendition of the song at Martin Luther King Jr.’s funeral in 1968 helped to solidify its place as one of the most beloved Gospel songs of all time.
“I’ll Fly Away”
“I’ll Fly Away” is a gospel song written by Albert E. Brumley and first published in 1932. The song became popular with both black and white performers in the 1940s, and has been recorded by many artists since then. The lyrics tell of the speaker’s longing for heaven, and their confidence that they will be reunited with loved ones who have died.
The song is often played at funeral services, particularly in the American South, where it is a beloved hymn. It is often used as a funerary staple by both white and black performers. Some of the most popular recordings include those by Patsy Cline, Aretha Franklin, Mahalia Jackson, Alison Krauss, and Willie Nelson.
“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot”
“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” is a Negro spiritual. The earliest known version was published in 1867, although the song is likely much older. It is possible that it originated with the Choctaw people in the early 1800s. The song became popular among African Americans during the period of Reconstruction and was later recorded by a number of gospel and blues singers. “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” has been performed by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Bessie Smith, and Paul Robeson. The song has also been adapted into other genres such as jazz and country music.
“Onward Christian Soldiers”
Onward Christian Soldiers is a popular gospel song that is often sung at funerals. The lyrics encourage Christians to march forward in faith, even in the face of death. The song is based on a military march, and the melody is both stirring and beautiful. This makes it an ideal choice for a funeral, especially for someone who was a soldier or who served their country in some other way.
