Once upon a time the phrase “gospel music” evoked images of sweaty American performers with raspy voices, belting out repeated “hallelujahs” to enthusiastic church crowds.
But if you think Gospel Music has been shaped by American singers alone, you might have to think again.
Steve Smith’s debut book British Black Gospel is a masterpiece into the origins of what is today a dynamic music genre in the UK.
That the history of such a pivotal genre of gospel music in Britain has been hitherto under-documented, is itself astonishing.
But Steve Smith, author of British Black Gospel beautifully compresses the result of ten years of research into six chapters which promise to leave British gospel music enthusiasts with that ‘eureka’ feeling.
For one thing, the lack of a preceding publication on this subject makes the book not only a trailblazer, but also a giant piece of the gospel music puzzle in Britain today .
Steve Smith acknowledges that the book is a work in progress but boy, what a progress itself the book has made!
British Black Gospel-Bridging the generation gap
Appealing to complex audiences with varied tastes is an ability which few writers are blessed with. However, readers of Steve Smith’s treatise will find an analysis of gospel music from every era.
From the late 19th century influence of Thomas Rutling and the Negro Spirituals to the contemporary sounds of the London Community Gospel Choir and Muyiwa of Riversongz amongst others, British Black gospel patiently represents the dynamism that characterises this rich, sublime music genre.
Describing the impact of this treatise on gospel music artists in Britain today, British Gospel Singer, Noel Robinson writes:
“As a gospel artist I couldn’t help but feel that I’m standing on the shoulders of some of the greatest movers and shakers of the past generation…”
But if like many of us you can’t be bothered by the facts and figures and are only interested in the music, then you certainly can’t avoid this book!
British Black Gospel is served with a spectacular side-dish, a British Black Gospel CD which samples a broad spectrum of gospel music styles including Reggae, Praise and Worship, Neo-Soul, Rap, Funk, Hip-hop, R&B and traditional gospel choral music amongst others.
Hope you enjoy reading this classic as much as I have!
