The Best Gospel Music Songs of 2016
Contents
Looking for the best gospel music of 2016? Check out our top picks and get inspired!
What is Gospel Music?
Gospel music is a genre of music that is based on the Christian faith. The lyrics of gospel music often contain positive messages that inspire and uplift the listener. The music is usually accompanied by a choir or band, and the lyrics are often sung in a call-and-response format. Gospel music is a popular genre of music that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
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 society. 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. Chandos Geistliche Harmonien (1611), a collection of German Protestant hymns sung by Georg Grüneberg’s choir at the Lutheran church in Heidelberg, is an example of early gospel music.
The first published use of the term “gospel song” probably appeared in 1874 when Philip Bliss released a songbook entitled Gospel Songs. A Choice Collection of Hymns and Tunes Old and New for use in Evangelistic Meetings, Sunday Schools, Prayer Meetings and the Home Circle Although love songs have always been popular (as reflected in the classic “Who Will Sing For Me?”), gospel songs have been gaining popularity since the 1970s. Accompaniment may be provided by musical instruments, though some Gospel songs are sung a cappella. In addition to style differences between musical genres (“Contemporary Gospel” versus “Traditional Gospel”), there are significant differences between soloists (“Men/Brothers” groups) versus choir-backed groups.
The Different Types of Gospel Music
Gospel music is a genre of music that is typically associated with Christian churches. It is characterized by a strong religious lyrical content, as well as ahouse, r&b, and sometimes even rock sound. There are many different sub-genres of gospel music, each with its own unique style and sound.
The Best Gospel Music Songs of 2016
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.
“No Longer Slaves” by Bethel Music
“No Longer Slaves” by Bethel Music is one of the best gospel music songs of 2016. This anointed song will fill your heart with the hope and joy of the Lord. The lyrics are based on Exodus 15:13 which says, “I AM THE LORD YOUR GOD, WHO BROUGHT YOU OUT OF THE LAND OF EGYPT, OUT OF THE HOUSE OF BONDAGE.” As you listen to this song, you will be reminded that you are no longer a slave to sin because Jesus has set you free.
“What a Beautiful Name” by Hillsong Worship
This song was released in 2016 as part of an album of the same name. The song was written by Ben Fielding and Brooke Ligertwood and quickly became a popular worship song. The chorus of the song is based on Revelation 3:12 which says, “Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what they have done.” The lyrics remind us that Jesus is coming back and that we should be living our lives in a way that honors Him.
“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” by Hillsong UNITED
“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” is a song by Hillsong UNITED. The song was released on 11 February 2013, as the lead single from their third album, Zion (2013). The song peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Christian Songs chart and at No. 1 on the Hot Christian AC chart.
The song was written by Matt Crocker, Joel Houston and Salomon Ligthelm, and was produced by Israel Houghton and Michael Guy Chislett. The song is based on Psalm 46:1-3.
“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” debuted at No. 2 on the Hot Christian Songs chart dated 9 March 2013, and spent 19 weeks on the chart. On 7 September 2013, the song became Hillsong UNITED’s first No. 1 on the Hot Christian AC radio airplay chart, and stayed atop the chart for nine consecutive weeks. It also reached No. 1 on the Radio & Records CHR and AC Indicator charts in October 2013, making it their first No. 1 single on both radio formats.
“Touch the Sky” by Hillsong UNITED
“Touch the Sky” is a single from Hillsong UNITED’s album, Wonder. The Christian rock band from Australia has produced some of the most popular worship songs in recent years, and “Touch the Sky” is no exception.
The anthemic track encourages listeners to reach for their dreams and never give up on themselves. The uplifting message and catchy melodies make “Touch the Sky” one of the best gospel songs of 2016.
“First” by Lauren Daigle
Lauren Daigle leads the pack in the best gospel songs of 2016 with her radio single “First.” The Louisiana native delivers a soulful, powerhouse performance of the worship song written by Paul Duncan and Cory Asbury. Asbury originally recorded the song for his live album, Reckless Love. When he heard Daigle’s version, he exclaimed that it was “flawless.”
The lyrics of “First” focus on God’s love being the priority in our lives. No matter what we face in life, His love never changes. The simple message is conveyed in a beautiful way, making it one of the best gospel songs of 2016.
Conclusion
All in all, these are some of the best gospel songs of 2016. Though there are many other great ones that didn’t make this list, these ten should get you started on enjoying the newest and latest in Christian music this year.
