Music that explores themes of Christian belief and biblical history, and is popular among black and whites alike. Their renditions may differ significantly, in keeping with the cultural/stylistic traits of blues and old-time coun¬try/bluegrass, respectively. Early African American spirituals, church hymnody, and blues formed the basis for the rise of gospel music in the 1930s. Sacred music has many stylistic variations – 3 and 4 part harmony, shape-note, common meter hymn choir, call-and-response, and praise house are all a part of gospel’s foundation.
Content is provided by McKissick Museum, University of South Carolina.
For further information about any of the artists featured on Digital Traditions, send your questions and comments to hallagan@mailbox.sc.edu.
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Marlena McGhee Smalls discusses the reason why the singers wear such elaborate clothing while on stage. From "Voices of the Gullah Culture: Hallelujah Singers." WJWJ-TV Beaufort, SC and SCETV, 1993.
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From the video production "A Collection of African-American Spiritual and Metered Hymns." Produced by Steve Sweeney.
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Bernice Cromwell and Rosiland Lucas talk about the power of music in their lives...
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Rosiland (on lead), Trudy Lucas, Bernice Cromwell, and Mary Lucas (l to r) in rehearsal for a perfomance in the Lowcountry.
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From the video production "A Collection of African-American Spiritual and Metered Hymns." Produced by Steve Sweeney.
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The Hallelujah Singers performing on WUSA-TV in Washington, D.C. 1993.
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The Chosen Sisters performing in 1992 at the "Heritage of Song" concert hosted by McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina. Co-produced by South Carolina Educational Television.
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Shell Johnson blowing the horn at Shady Grove Camp Meeting in 2002. Footage courtesy of Stan Woodward and Woodward Studio Ltd.
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The Malloy Family Singers performing in 1992 at the "Heritage of Song" concert hosted by McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina. Co-produced by South Carolina Educational Television.
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Smith singing at the 1988 Harborwalk Festival in Georgetown, SC. Aired on "Midday 5" program with WCSC-TV in Charleston, South Carolina
