The Black Church

Jennifer Hudson’s first memory of church was on Easter Sunday, where videos of Jesus’ crucifixion brought her to tears. This experience was the moment she finally understood the power of the Church.

In 1997, Kirk Franklin introduced gospel music to the Billboard charts with his song “Stomp.” However, some traditional church leaders accused him of bringing “devil music” into the Church.

As Black Churches became prominent throughout the country, white supremacists began targeting these sacred places of refuge for the Black community.

The Black Church emerged out of struggle but yet has a history of oppressing its members. For the institution to survive, it must be a place that is welcoming to all.

Growing up steeped in the church, John Legend attributes his faith-oriented upbringing to his successful music career.

Martin Luther King Jr. met Prathia Hall in a mass meeting where she discussed her vision for the world by repeating the phrase “I have a dream.” Dr. King adapted her prayer to one of the famous speeches in American history.

John Legend showcases his musical talent and deep church roots while singing “So Good To Me.”

Jesse Jackson challenged Ronald Reagan in his political campaign, embracing the role of a preacher politician. Although his campaign didn’t succeed, Jackson paved the way for a new generation of leaders in the Church and outside of it.

The Black Church is the place where the African American community made their way in society and one they can always call home.

In this intimate four-hour series from executive producer, host, and writer Henry Louis Gates, Jr., we trace how this came to be in the 400 year-old story of the Black church in America, all the way down to its bedrock role as the site of African American survival and endurance, grace and resilience, thriving and testifying, freedom and independence, solidarity and speaking truth to power.

In the late 1960s, Pentecostal choirs emerged to bring youthful energy back to the Church. The Edwin Hawkins Singers were one of the groups that rose to stardom with their single “Oh, Happy Day.”

The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song will explore the 400-year-old story of the Black church in America, the changing nature of worship spaces, and the men and women who shepherded them from the pulpit, the choir loft, and church pews.