This media item will not play in the Internet software you are currently using.
Gospel music, a term probably coined in the 1920s, is religious music composed in a popular music style. It became popular in the black churches and has since evolved alongside, and influenced, black popular music. The root of gospel singing is in the free-rhythmic, ornate style of spiritual singing and the impassioned preaching of black Baptist preachers. A number of groups were recorded on the rhythm-and-blues Specialty record label, such as Sam Cooke and the Soul Stirrers, the Five Blind Boys of Alabama, and the Swan Silvertones, heard in this example.
"My Rock" performed by The Swan Silvertones, from Greatest Gospel Gems (Cat.# Specialty SPCD-7206-2) (p)1991 Specialty Records Inc; Fantasy, Inc. All rights reserved.