What is gospel music?
Gospel music is a genre that’s deeply rooted in the African American church tradition, blending Christian themes with rich harmonies, call-and-response vocals, and elements of blues, jazz, and soul. It’s known for its powerful expression of faith, hope, and resilience, often performed by soloists, bands, or choirs.
Above, the producers behind Sound Doctrine and leading musicians sat down with us on the Splice YouTube channel to discuss the genre’s history and showcase how they capture authentic gospel samples—join us for an in-depth look, and read highlights below.
Access the world’s best sample library and connected creator tools for only $0.99.
The history of gospel music
Gospel music and the Black church in America share a deep, intertwined history rooted in the African American experience, spirituality, and the struggle for equality. During slavery, African Americans blended Christian teachings with African musical traditions, creating spirituals—religious folk songs that expressed faith, resistance, and hope.
Gospel music emerged in the early 1900s, spreading from the church to the music industry, blending blues, jazz, and hymns with powerful vocals and emotional depth. Thomas A. Dorsey (who is regarded as the father of gospel music) and legendary vocalist Mahalia Jackson helped popularize the genre, leading to what would be known as its golden age. During the Civil Rights Movement, gospel songs like “We Shall Overcome” became anthems of faith and resistance.
Capturing authentic gospel samples
Today, musicians like Pastor Edward “Busta” Fields continue to carry the torch for gospel, leading choirs on a weekly basis. We had the honor of recording Fields and his church choir for The City Choir sample pack, which allowed us to dive deep into the essence of traditional gospel music.
“The choir on this pack is literally a church choir,” he explains. “We have ushers, deacons, and lay members—people from our congregation who love worshiping the Lord and singing His praises. They come together weekly to rehearse and prepare to sing on Sundays, and we had an incredible opportunity to create this pack of music and provide these sounds for you.”
Choirs have long been an essential part of Black churches, fostering unity, expression, and spiritual uplift. Recording authentic gospel samples is all about capturing the organic collaboration that happens in church choirs and bands every week.
Looking ahead
Gospel samples have formed the backdrop to so many of today’s songs, and Sound Doctrine takes pride in authentically representing the gospel community while honoring the rich legacy of the genre. The hope is that musicians continue to incorporate the timeless soul and heart of gospel into their own creations.
How has gospel music shaped your artistry? What other topics would you like to see us explore next? Start a conversation with us and an ever-growing community of music creators via the Splice Discord.
Explore Sound Doctrine’s expansive collection of gospel sample packs:
February 25, 2025
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
