Gospel

Until the 1940s, male quartets dominated gospel recordings. But, in 1947, Apollo Records, a small independent label decided to take a chance on Mahalia Jackson, an accomplished singer on the Chicago gospel scene. The success of "Move on Up a Little Higher" proved that Gospel music could be both spiritual and profitable.

Seeking to grow his audience beyond New Bethel's walls, Rev. Franklin recorded more than 70 albums of sermons with the help of Joe Von Battle, a local record store owner in Detroit.

"I listen to C.L. Franklin still to this very day, because of his skill at the preaching exercise."

Rev. Dwight Andrews discusses C.L. Franklin and what Black preaching is.

"She believed and trusted in god, and was not ashamed -- and would let you know that."

Dionne Warwick weighs in on what was special about Mahalia Jackson's voice.

Thomas Dorsey co-founds the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses in 1933 -- soon the gospel choir would be one of the most important elements of the gospel tradition.

From the blues to hip hop, African Americans have been the driving force of sonic innovation for over a century. Musical styles come and go, but there's one sound that has been a constant source of strength, courage and wisdom from the pulpit to the choir lofts on any given Sunday. GOSPEL, the latest history series from Henry Louis Gates, Jr., digs deep into the origin story of Black spirituality

Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. visits the Hampton University Ministers' Conference, where he speaks with Bishop Rudolph McKissick and Rev. Dr. William Curtis about the art of Black preaching.

To reach a population of young black millennials motivated by digital activism, married pastors Gabby and Andrew Wilkes began their ministry in Brooklyn. They aptly titled it "The Double Love Experience."

Shirley Caesar's 1988 album Live in Chicago features the song "Hold My Mule," which tells the story of Shoutin' John, a man whose praise won't be silenced.

Twinkie Clark demonstrates two of her gospel compositions -- the Clark Sisters' bluesy hit "Is My Living in Vain" and the classically-inspired ballad "My Soul Loves Jesus."

Andrae Crouch becomes the go-to producer for pop and Hollywood -- bringing the gospel sound to the music of Michael Jackson and Madonna, as well as an Oscar-nominated classic.

The legendary gospel singer Mahalia Jackson provided the soundtrack for the Civil Rights Movement, financial support with her checkbook and emotional solace in Dr. King's darkest hours.