While gospel music can be traced back to the early 17th century, black gospel music really took shape in the late 18th century, when slaves began converting to Christianity and proclaiming their faith through work music.
Tuned Into Faith
Queens Parochial Vicar Turns Older Melodies Into Modern Inspiration
Father Joseph Palackal, parochial vicar for St. Margaret Church since 2019, is a world-renowned musicologist and a foremost authority on liturgical music. He can even chant in multiple languages, including Aramaic, the language spoken by ordinary people in Judea at the time of Christ.
Touch of Grace: Jerry Garcia And the Gospel of the Dead
While the iconic skull and skeleton images have become synonymous with the Grateful Dead, fans may be surprised to learn that frontman Jerry Garcia was a man of faith.
Brooklyn-Born Singer, Actress, Activist Lena Horne Was Often Guided by Faith
When Lena Horne died on May 9, 2010, at the age of 92, she was revered as one of the most important women of the 20th century. And it all started in the Diocese of Brooklyn for the award-winning singer, actress, and civil rights activist.
Our Lady of Angels Music Director Has Devoted Career to Serving the Church
Music director Scott Battaglia has pursued music ministry across New York City, now bringing his lifelong passion for church music to Our Lady of Angels and St. Anselm’s.
From ‘Born to Run’ to ‘The Rising’: Bruce Springsteen’s Spiritual Journey
Many milestones are occurring this year for Bruce Springsteen, not the least of which was the 50th anniversary of his landmark classic “Born to Run.”
Music Director Inspired to Adapt ‘Hallelujah’ as a Wedding Song
Canadian singer, songwriter, poet, and author Leonard Cohen’s iconic ballad Hallelujah” has been recorded by hundreds of artists since it was first released as a track on his 1984 album “Various Positions.”
‘The World Glowed With Mary’s Sweet Smile’; The Songs About Mary, The Greatest Mother of Them All
As we celebrate Mother’s Day and honor all the many attributes of motherhood and those special women in our life, we also must remember the greatest mother of them all, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and all the songs that have been sung in praise of all she signifies as the mother of our Lord.
How Harry Belafonte and Irving Burgie Helped Popularize Caribbean Calypso Music
With the passing of Harry Belafonte at 96 years old, America has lost one of its most unique and important voices in the civil rights movement.
Only in Print: Juilliard-Trained Priest Prays, and Plays, for His Divine Mercy Parish
Father Thomas Vassalotti’s love of classical music permeates the three churches in the Divine Mercy Parish of Williamsburg: St. Cecilia Church, St. Francis of Paola Church, and St. Nicholas.