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The Gospel Hour
A Sound Born of Struggle and Spirit
Gospel music traces its roots to the early 17th century, deeply influenced by African spirituals and Christian hymns. Enslaved Africans in the American South developed spirituals—songs of hope, resistance, and faith—often performed in a call-and-response style with hand-clapping and foot-stomping as rhythmic accompaniment.
By the late 19th century, figures like Philip Bliss and Ira D Sankey helped formalise gospel music through revival movements, publishing accessible hymns that emphasised salvation and personal testimony. The genre evolved further in the 20th century with pioneers like Thomas A. Dorsey (dubbed the "Father of Gospel Music") and Mahalia Jackson, who infused gospel with jazz and blues, creating a powerful emotional resonance.
Fast forward to today and gospel music is thriving with renewed energy, diversity, and innovation. Urban Gospel is surging, especially in places like Ghana, where artists are pushing for unity and collaboration within the genre. Major events like the Stellar Gospel Music Awards, hosted by BeBe & CeCe Winans, showcase legends and rising stars alike and International Competitions such as the Jamaica Gospel Star 2025 highlight vocal talent and stage presence, blending gospel with reggae and dancehall influences. Through digital worship virtual concerns and social media engagement are expanding gospel’s reach.
Gospel music remains a powerful tool for worship, storytelling, and cultural expression. Today, it’s not just a genre, it’s a movement that uplifts, unites, and inspires across generations and geographies.
Join us here at Soul City Radio for the Gospel Hour, every Sunday morning 6-7am. Our presenters will be sharing the very best gospel music for your listening pleasure. You can refer to the station schedule for further information.