Gospel Music and Spirituals: A Journey of Resilience and Reverence
6 Oct 2023
In my boyhood, the echoes of my mother’s voice often filled the air with hymns from the church and old religious tunes, which, at that time, I didn’t realise were known as spirituals.
She used to sing them as a source of strength and determination, a means to encourage herself. These melodies, to me, became the embodiment of resilience and perseverance, a sonic refuge to tap into the innermost reservoirs of strength.
Femi Temowo, Choir Boy Musical Director & Arranger
Now, as a man and a musician, these hymns and songs have taken on a more profound significance in my life.
While they still carry the weight of history, I’ve come to appreciate the profound beauty in the melodies of hymns such as Precious Lord, Take My Hand and the stirring emotions that I Couldn’t Hear Nobody Pray evokes within my spirit.
I believe these songs serve as a bridge to our past, connecting us to our ancestors, much like all music does. However, spirituals hold a unique power for me, as I recognise that my fore-bearers used them to reach out to something greater than themselves.
It’s this spiritual connection that I find when I hear these songs or when I perform them.
My approach to gospel music and spirituals has evolved into one of deep reverence. To me, they are akin to delicate family heirlooms, treasures to be cherished.
These songs have been a source of joy and healing in the past, and they still possess the power to do the same in the present and the future. I believe that you don’t necessarily need to be religious to experience this connection; you simply need to be open to the possibility of something greater than yourself.
Singing these songs as a community can lead to the most sublime experiences, and I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to consider joining their local choir.
Femi Temowo
Choir Boy Musical Director & Arranger
