The Best of Soul Gospel Music

The best of soul gospel music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

The Origins of Soul Gospel

The term “soul gospel” was coined in the early 1970s by music industry insiders to describe a new wave of gospel performers who were bringing a more contemporary, soulful sound to the genre. These artists embraced elements of soul, R&B, and even rock and roll in their music, while still maintaining the spiritual core of traditional gospel. The result was a more accessible and secular-sounding style of gospel that was able to reach a wider audience.

While soul gospel music originated in the 1970s, its roots can be traced back to the earlier sounds of artists like Mahalia Jackson and James Cleveland. Jackson was one of the first gospel singers to cross over into the mainstream pop charts, and her soulful style paved the way for other artists to follow suit. Cleveland was also an important innovator within the genre, producing some of the first gospel recordings to feature a full choir and orchestra. These early pioneers laid the groundwork for the soul gospel sound that would come to dominate the genre in the following decades.

The 1970s saw a number of seminal soul gospel albums released, including Andraé Crouch’s “Keep On Singin'” (1972), The Staples Singers’ “Be What You Are” (1973), and Mavis Staples’ “The Staple Singers” (1975). These albums helped to establish soul gospel as its own distinct genre within the larger world of Christian music. In subsequent years, soul gospel would go on to influence a new generation of contemporary Christian artists, including Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant, and Kirk Franklin.

The Pioneers of Soul Gospel

The term “soul gospel” was first coined in the early 1970s by musicologist Thomas Dorsey to describe a new style of religio-musical expression that blended the sounds of rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz. This new genre of music emerged from the African American church tradition and was popularized by artists such as James Cleveland, Shirley Caesar, Alex Bradford, and The Fairfield Four. Soul gospel music has its roots in the call-and-response singing style of the Negro spiritual, which was first brought to America by slaves who were forcibly converted to Christianity. In soul gospel music, the soloist typically sings a line or phrase, which is then echoed by the choir or congregation. This call-and-response pattern is similar to the way in which many African American sermons are delivered. The popularity of soul gospel music soared in the 1960s and 1970s as it provided a way for black Americans to express their religious faith while also addressing the social and political issues of the day. While soul gospel music is no longer as popular as it once was, its influence can still be heard in contemporary pop, R&B, and hip-hop.

The Best Soul Gospel Songs

When it comes to finding the best of soul gospel music, there are many great artist that have made a name for themselves in the music industry. However, there are only a few that have truly captured the hearts of fans all over the world. Here are five of the best soul gospel songs that have ever been recorded.

“Amazing Grace” by Aretha Franklin
There is no doubt that Aretha Franklin is one of the most iconic and influential singer/songwriters of all time. Her 1972 live performance of “Amazing Grace” is widely considered to be one of the greatest gospel songs ever recorded. The powerful lyrics and Franklin’s soulful vocals combine to create a truly unforgettable performance.

“Oh Happy Day” by Edwin Hawkins Singers
This 1967 gospel classic became a massive crossover hit, reaching #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The feel-good vibes and catchy melody make “Oh Happy Day” an instant soul/gospel classic.

“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” by Mahalia Jackson
Mahalia Jackson is often referred to as the “Queen of Gospel Music,” and it’s easy to see why after listening to her signature song “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.” Jackson’s powerful vocals and emotionally charged delivery make this traditional gospel tune a must-hear.

“Touch Me Lord Jesus” by Mavis Staples
Mavis Staples is a legendary figure in both the gospel and R&B world, and her 1992 hit “Touch Me Lord Jesus” perfectly blends both genres. The impassioned lyrics and Staples’ powerhouse vocal performance come together to create a stirring and spiritual musical experience.

“A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke
This 1964 civil rights anthem was written and performed by legendary R&B artist Sam Cooke. The hopeful message and Cooke’s captivating vocals make “A Change Is Gonna Come” an enduring soul/gospel classic.

The Future of Soul Gospel

The future of soul gospel music is very exciting. With the Internet, artists are able to reach a wider audience and connect with fans all over the world. The ability to share music and connect with others has never been easier.

With the popularity of social media, soul gospel artists are able to promote their music and connect with fans on a more personal level. Social media gives artists the opportunity to build a relationship with their fans and create a connection that goes beyond just the music.

The future of soul gospel music is very bright and the possibilities are endless. With the help of the Internet, soul gospel artists will be able to reach more people and connect with fans in ways that were never before possible.