Best Gospel Groups for Your Next Church Event*

The definition of the Gospel means good news. That's the feeling that gospel music invokes its listeners and fans. Through music, the ideology of Christianity has been spread since the late 1800s. 

During this time, African-American spirituals were fusing with hymns and other sacred songs to form what we now know as gospel music. The songs would move people to dance, clap their hands and stomp their feet. If you have ever heard gospel music live, it sounds and feels like a celebration. And that's just what it should be. You are attending church to celebrate, and you should leave feeling invigorated and with a new sense of hope.

Finding a Choir

If your church is hosting an event, hiring a traditional southern gospel group may be just the thing you need to impassion your congregation. There are plenty of choirs that are available and travel from church to church, spreading their message of celebrating Christ through music and dance.

How to Choose Your Style

There are four main branches of gospel music. While they all share similarities, they are each unique in their rite. Thomas A. Dorsey, who is known in the choir community as the father of gospel music, was instrumental in helping evolve the style of a worship song. There is no right or wrong answer to what style to choose, and each choir might have a different take and version of their music. There are even choirs who incorporate a blues style into their mix. Some choirs are more sedate, while others take praise and worship to even higher levels.

Quartet Style

The quartet is where a small group, usually four and typically male singers perform. They sing together with sounds that feature tight harmonizing vocals. 

Traditional Gospel

Traditional Gospel is a throwback to the original sounds of Gospel music. This style features a choir, usually in the regular choir robes harmonizing and singing the classic songs. 

Contemporary Gospel

This style is similar to the traditional style but with a twist. Contemporary style puts a spotlight on soloists to spread the message. The choir serves as the backup singers, and they still do perform the traditional songs.

Praise and Worship

Praise and worship is a hybrid of traditional and contemporary styles. There is an appointed leader that takes most of the lead vocals. The choir helps lead the remainder of the congregation to join in singing the gospel hymns. 

Conclusion

Many people that are looking to invigorate their church event opt for the praise and worship style of gospel music. This style of music is perfect for helping to lead activities and encouraging congregation participation. Before you hire your gospel choir, you will want to make sure you know what your objective is and what the event is about. This will help you to narrow down style and vibe. You can spend some time looking at videos of the choir's past performances to help you better understand what they will deliver at your event.

DISCLOSURE: This article was provided as an informational editorial to help evaluate one's selection of groups to provide music at an event. *This article does not necessarily endorse a particular group or musician. We are all responsible to select to hear and watch that which our spirit, our faith, and our personal preference permit.