Synopsis
Southern gospel music as its name implies comes from its origins in the Southeastern United States whose lyrics are written to express either personal or a communal faith regarding biblical teachings and Christian life, as well as (in terms of the varying music styles) to give a Christian alternative to mainstream secular music. Sometimes known as “quartet music” for its traditional “four men and a piano” set up, southern gospel has evolved over the years into a popular form of music across the United States and overseas, especially among baby boomers and those living in the Southern United States. Like other forms of music the creation, performance, significance, and even the definition of southern gospel varies according to culture and social context. It is composed and performed for many purposes, ranging from aesthetic pleasure, religious or ceremonial purposes, or as an entertainment product for the marketplace.
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Explanatory Article
Southern Gospel’s establishment as a distinct genre is generally dated to around 1910, when the first professional quartet was formed for the purpose of selling songbooks for the James D. Vaughan Music Publishing Company. However, the style of music itself had existed for at least 35 years prior. The Oak Ridge Boys originally sang Southern Gospel exclusively, although they later performed country music as well.
Southern Gospel is sometimes called “quartet music” by fans due to the original all male, tenor-lead-baritone-bass quartet make-up. Early quartets were typically accompanied only by piano or guitar, and in some cases a piano and banjo. Over time, full bands were added and even later, pre-record accompaniments were introduced.
Source: New World Encyclopedia
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Early Southern Gospel Style Singers
Early Southern Gospel artists such as The Speer Family, The Blackwood Family, The Lefevre Trio, and The Carter Family achieved wide popularity through their recordings and radio performances in the 1920s through the 1950s. Others, such as Homer Rodeheaver, George Beverly Shea, Cliff Barrows, or the Cathedral Quartet, became well-known through their association with popular evangelists such as Billy Sunday, Rex Humbard, and Billy Graham.
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Examples of Songs / Artists
Coming soon
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Recommended CD Compilations
Coming soon
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Further References
Coming soon
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