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The Birth of Gospel Jazz Music |
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Written by Webmaster
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By Jan Waring
 Gospel jazz music is considered the music of rebirth and promise, as well as the music of pain and loss. As a cultural foundation of the American society, it was born out of times of emotional turmoil.
A Brief History
In the early 1900s African-American churches in the South encouraged their congregations to interact with the sermon, sharing their beliefs in the power of salvation. These emotional outbursts easily transformed into song.
Early artists implemented this new style of jazz music into mainstream American society. They implemented familiar jazz instruments into the form of gospel jazz music. Soon people began to hear such instruments as drums and pianos behind the powerful ballads of church singers. Thomas A. Dorsey, one of the early artists, wanted to provide a basis for churches to help their members express themselves about their religious convictions, using his music as a general guideline. Little did he know that he was bringing gospel music to the forefront of American musical culture.
Feel the Beat
Although passionately moving and serious, the tone of gospel jazz music during
Dorseys time was not very upbeat. This genre began to take a new turn in the 1940s, as jazz artists incorporated more dance rhythms with more joyful overtones.
This new form of music was broadened from strictly religious text to include the trials of everyday life. In turn, gospel jazz music was incorporated into popular music, reaching audiences that had never before heard such unique musical influences.
Gospel jazz music continues its popularity throughout America. It has certainly come a long way from its humble beginnings in small churches, and its influence will continue to be heard in the music industry for a long time to come.
Jan Waring is an avid Jazz Music fan and writes many articles on the subject. Read more at Jazz 411. |
