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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One of the services of a week-long tent revival in 1988 in McCormick, SC (McCormick County). The evangelist is Charles Booker Jr. of Johnston, SC (Edgefield County)
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Song excerpt from Bill Pinkney and the Original Drifters Anthology
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Audio transcript for: I'm Going Away Operator Right On Time
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The Sonoco Men’s Club is a group of men who have dedicated a great part of their lives to singing gospel and traditional music. Organized in 1960, the Sonoco Men’s Club is comprised mostly of retired...
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Audio transcript for: Amazing Grace Leaning On The Everlasting Arms
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Located in the small, rural town of Hampton, SC (Hampton County), St. Paul Primitive Baptist Church nurtures singing and preaching traditions over hundred years old. Pastors come from within the...
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Audio transcripts for: Hear My Prayer, Lord Master, I Know You Can When That Great Crowd Shall Gather You Can't Hide
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One of the choirs that sang in the Sunday afternoon “Gospel Extravaganza” portion of the Williamsburg County Black Heritage Festival in Kingstree, SC.
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The songs were recorded live, with no microphones in order to enhance a listener’s transportation by the old-style, traditional slave spirituals praising God even though times were dark.
