Moriah Mason / Staff Writer
On Feb.25, the Samford Gospel Choir performed at Bolding Studio, and the theme of the choir’s performance was called “The Evolution of Gospel Music.” The choir sang a series of songs from different eras in order to show the progression of African-American gospel music.
Besides this performance, the Gospel Choir has also performed during convocation several times. In the spring of 2019, the choir had an encouragement concert in Reid Chapel. The choir also had a Christmas concert in Harry’s Coffeehouse in the Fall.
While the Gospel Choir has performed many times, students Christa Chery and Brooklyn Andrzejewski had comments about Gospel Choir’s “Evolution of Gospel Music” concert.
Chery enjoyed the performance because it showcased the diverse, influential style of music.
Andrzejewski stated that she loved the performance because she was able to learn about the history of African-American gospel music.
“I enjoyed the performance because I love gospel music and learning more about the history behind it, and seeing people reclaim that history for their own empowerment,” Andrzejewski said.
After watching their performance, Andrejewski stated that she cannot wait to see where Samford Gospel Choir is headed.
Chery and Andrzejewski also had comments about the importance of gospel music as it relates to people of color.
“Gospel music is extremely important to black culture and the music industry. Gospel music is pertinent to the faith, hope, and resilience of black people in America and has contributed greatly to the way we worship both within the church and our everyday lives,” Chery said.
“Gospel music is important for people of color to see their history reclaimed and used in such an empowering way, and is important for other races’ to see the power of God in their history and to see the representation and the joy and the faith depicted in the music,” Andrzejewski said.
While Chery and Andrzejewski conveyed the importance of gospel music, Andrzejewski commented on the reason behind the progression of African-American gospel music.
“Gospel music evolved along with the political and racial movements of each time period, and those things are constantly evolving and changing. Racism, prejudice, and injustice are still all around us, and gospel music is still rising up to fight them,” Andrzejewski said.
