Christian or not, you've likely encountered gospel music in some form, as it's often blended with genres like rap, pop, and rock. Originating from 19th-century religious revivals, gospel music is a genre of American Protestant music and evolved uniquely within white (European American) and Black (African American) communities in the U.S.
With its deep roots and enduring significance, gospel music has expanded into various sub-genres over time, each offering a unique take on its strong religious and social themes. Whether you're a musician or a fan, exploring these sub-genres can help you discover the styles that resonate with you most. Here's a guide to get you started.
The Four Different Types of Gospel Music
- Traditional Gospel
- Quartet Gospel
- Contemporary Gospel
- Praise and Worship
- Urban Gospel
- Southern Gospel
- Bluegrass Gospel
- Country Gospel
- Gospel Blues
- Gospel Rap
- Reggae Gospel
- Contemporary Christian Music (CCM)
- Liturgical Gospel
- Choir Gospel
- African Gospel
What Is Gospel Music?
So what is Gospel music? It can be identified with its strong, powerful vocals, with an entire choir singing lyrics with a distinctive religious theme. These vocals often accompany claps and foot stomps, adding rhythm and flow. The genre has historically been closely associated with African-American communities. It found ground in Black churches during the 20th century, becoming a regular and significant feature of church service.
Since then, it has become mainstream and is sung at venues on various occasions worldwide. Nevertheless, it never lost that distinct association with the Black culture of the 20th century. Superprof's online gospel music classes can tell you more about the genre. You can learn more about its fascinating history and how to become a gospel musician.
What Is the History of Gospel Music?
During the Atlantic slave trade, many enslaved Black people would sing spiritual hymns and songs while working in fields. These songs incorporated themes of traditional African music and reimagined them in new and interesting ways. Over time, these hymns developed an increasingly Christian identity. During the 18th century, many English composers wrote down gospel hymns to be sung during church service. At this stage, the genre was still in its infancy. However, it would soon take on a more concrete shape in the 1800s.
During the 19th century, a mass survival movement was underway, and various composers came forward with collections of gospel hymns. It was also during this era when Philip Bliss first coined the term "gospel music" to describe this new genre of church music. However, it was not until after the 1920s and the advent of the radio that the gospel was able to adopt an association with Black music and culture. Black churches readily adopted it, and various publishing houses dedicated to publishing gospel records cropped up across the American states.
Ever since, the gospel has become mainstream and a significant part of the Christian culture across the world. From the late-20th century till today, the gospel has been experiencing its golden age. It frequently appears in chart-topping records and has splintered into numerous sub-genres, reflective of its complex and long history. Yet, gospel music never shunned its religious origins. It is still a part of church service as a mandatory tradition in Sunday mass at churches across the US, particularly Black churches.
Are you curious to know how gospel has impacted other musical genres?
What Are the Types of Gospel Music Genres?
There are fifteen types of gospel genres. While all of them incorporate the core elements of gospel (a strong emphasis on the vocal chorus) they diverge from one another. Here is what you need to know about the genre of gospel music!
1. Traditional Gospel
As the name suggests, the traditional gospel is the closest to the genre's origins. It continues to present the gospel as it was sung for centuries. As such, it has the strongest themes of religion, spirituality, and Christianity. Moreover, this is the sub-genre that was developed by African-Americans and continues to be relevant and significant in Black churches today.
However, this does not mean the genre is static, locked away in some bygone era. Instead, the traditional gospel simply tries to uphold the core tenets and features of what first gave the gospel its distinct identity. As such, it has become closely associated with Black gospel traditions. Hundreds of traditional gospel songs are released every year, and the sub-genre continues to evolve in the US.
2. Quartet Gospel
Although not as popular as it used to be in the mid-20th century, the quartet gospel continues to have a distinct character and identity. Quartet gospel is almost exclusively sung by male vocalists, all of whom sing with very tight harmonies – almost in unison.
Mastering that ability to sing harmoniously requires vocal talent, and today, you will still find quartet singers at churches performing for Sunday mass or church service. Due to its close association with early and mid-20th century culture, there are many quartet singers in period movies. Its unique identity has ensured it has an enduring legacy and fan base. Find your perfect tutor for singing lessons near me here on Superprof!
3. Contemporary Gospel
The contemporary gospel is the obvious modern incarnation of the gospel. It seeks to produce trendier gospel hymns that adopt not only contemporary music but also modern messages. As a result, it has been instrumental in attracting younger audiences to church and capturing their imagination. The contemporary gospel does not rely on vocals, claps, and stomps, either.
It readily integrates the latest musical instruments into its sets – including electronic keyboards and guitars. As such, it is very easy to integrate into other song genres, such as pop, rock, blues, and rap. This has made it very popular among younger audiences since it directly appeals to their sensibilities. Find your perfect tutor for singing lessons near me on Superprof!
4. Praise and Worship
Praise and worship are a sub-genre of the gospel that attempts to adopt features of both contemporary and traditional gospel. Moreover, it is seldom sung alone or for a recording. Rather, praise and worship singers are predominantly performing artists. They invite their audiences to sing along with them in praise and worship of God. Of course, this sub-genre continues to be very popular at churches and other religious events. Moreover, due to its adoption of contemporary musical instruments, it is also appreciated by younger audiences. Would you like to learn more about the core elements on Gospel music?
5. Urban Gospel
Also called urban contemporary gospel, this sub-genre mixes R&B, hip-hop and funk influences. It's geared toward a younger urban audience and often features solo vocalists and upbeat production. The lyrics often focus on personal transformation, overcoming adversity and trusting in God's plan. Artists like Kirk Franklin and Kierra Sheard lead this sub-genre which makes gospel music more relatable for people who might not attend traditional church services. Urban gospel is popular on streaming platforms and continues to evolve with youth culture. It speaks to real-life challenges while keeping faith at the center.
6. Southern Gospel
Originating from the southern U.S. this style is influenced by country and bluegrass. It often features quartets, acoustic instruments and storytelling lyrics. Southern gospel uses simple melodies and harmonies to emphasize messages of salvation and personal faith. Known for its uplifting tone and outlook this sub-genre is a favorite in family gatherings, small churches and gospel festivals. Groups like The Gaither Vocal Band are icons in this space. Southern gospel's strength is in its connection to rural Christian traditions offering a familiar and comforting sound.
7. Bluegrass Gospel
This sub-genre blends gospel themes with banjos, fiddles and harmony singing, rooted in Appalachian traditions. It's often performed at outdoor events and revivals. The lyrics draw from scripture and personal testimony creating a deep emotional and spiritual experience. Bluegrass gospel is known for its tight harmonies and instrumental skill offering a raw organic worship style. Acts like Ricky Skaggs and Alison Krauss helped bring it to wider audiences.
8. Country Gospel Music Genre
Similar to bluegrass gospel this style highlights traditional country instrumentation and often features solo artists singing about faith, family and salvation. It mixes heartfelt storytelling with Christian values making it popular among country fans who seek spiritual content. Artists such as Dolly Parton and Randy Travis have recorded standout tracks in this genre. Country gospel talks about life's struggles and blessings using warm melodies and relatable lyrics. Its approachable tone helps it connect deeply with listeners across rural and city settings. Listen to some tracks on YouTube!
9. Gospel Blues
Gospel blues merges the 12-bar blues format with gospel lyrics creating a raw emotional sound. Often led by soulful solo vocals, it conveys deep spiritual themes. The style emerged in the early 20th century as a fusion of spirituals and blues music. Blind Willie Johnson helped shape this genre with gravelly vocals and haunting melodies that spoke of pain and hope. Gospel blues often explores redemption, suffering and grace. Its minimal instrumentation highlights the power and honesty of the message.
10. Gospel Rap
Gospel rap combines Christian themes with hip-hop beats and rhymes. It's a fast-growing genre among young people looking to connect faith and culture. Artists like Lecrae and NF use this style to explore identity, purpose and belief in language that speaks to today's youth. Gospel rap gives an alternative to mainstream hip-hop by offering positive faith-based content without losing lyrical depth or sound quality. Live shows in this genre feel like energetic concerts that double as spiritual experiences. Here is a full playlist on Spotify.
11. Reggae Gospel Genre
Using Jamaican rhythms and spiritual themes, reggae gospel delivers an upbeat joyful vibe that reaches international audiences. It borrows reggae's smooth flow and syncopated beat to share messages of love, unity and faith. Popular in the Caribbean and among diaspora communities, artists like Papa San and Christafari are pioneers of this genre. Reggae gospel works well in churches and everyday settings. Its rhythm and positivity make it a powerful way to spread gospel values in a globally familiar format.
12. Contemporary Christian Music (CCM)
Though wider in scope than gospel, CCM includes Christian pop and rock that fits radio formats. It focuses on personal stories and spiritual growth. Artists like Lauren Daigle, TobyMac and Chris Tomlin create songs for both worship and daily encouragement. CCM often features polished production and catchy melodies. It's common in youth events, radio playlists and Sunday services. This genre connects broad audiences by blending faith with current music trends, making it a bridge between church and popular culture. You can find many CCM playlists on YouTube within the types of Christian music!
13. Liturgical Gospel
Liturgical gospel fits within formal worship services in churches like Catholic and Episcopal denominations. It emphasizes reverence and structure, often aligning with parts of the church calendar. Music in this genre might include organ, choir and classical arrangements supporting readings and sacraments. This style joins traditional doctrine with gospel feeling creating a rich ceremonial atmosphere. Performed by trained musicians it enhances sacred rituals while honoring gospel's expressive style.
14. Choir Gospel
Choir gospel highlights large vocal groups and bold arrangements often seen in megachurches or gospel broadcasts. Known for its volume and emotional weight, it mixes layered harmonies with solo lines and dramatic crescendos. Artists like Hezekiah Walker and the Mississippi Mass Choir show how choir gospel turns a performance into a spiritual event.
15. African Gospel
African gospel includes music from across the continent, using local languages, traditional instruments and rich vocal harmonies. It ranges from upbeat West African praise songs to smooth South African choir pieces. Artists like Sinach and Benjamin Dube bring this sound to global audiences. African gospel honors cultural identity and spiritual commitment. It blends heritage with worship creating worship experiences that are both vibrant and deeply rooted. Here is one of his performances on YouTube!
So, what is your favorite type of gospel music?
Learn Gospel Music with Superprof
Learning gospel is surprisingly not that hard – and actually quite fun! You just need to be able to memorize the lyrics and practice your vocals. Since it is primarily sung as a chorus, your combined vocal melody is sufficient to smoothen any bumps or flaws. Moreover, since it is a team activity, learning gospel music can also give you the opportunity to make new friends. Learning how to sing this genre united can be a spiritual, uplifting, and fun experience. If you're in San Diego and looking to polish your technique, consider exploring singing lessons san diego.
If you want to learn more about gospel music, get in touch with us at Superprof. Our online music tutors are highly qualified and have the necessary experienced to give you the learning you need. You will not need to leave the comfort of your house and commute to some distant music school to learn the gospel. Nor will you need to commit to a church, either. You can just appreciate and participate in the creative genius of gospel music online with others who share your passion for it.
Plus, learning gospel music online is not as expensive! We are well within everybody's means. So if you want to get started on your gospel music journey, contact us. We will connect you with a professional music tutor and schedule lessons according to your availability and convenience. If you are interested in learning more about gospel music or adult singing lessons, get in touch with Superprof today!
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
Great insight. Looking forward to enroll for some lessons
I learned a lot thanks
The kind of gospel that I like is praise and worship because it gets me excited and happy
Thank you for your comment, Justin!
I love Gospel music ❤❤❤ I want to be perfect of music also I have sweet voice
Thank you for your comment, Doris!