The UB Interview: Directors of ‘Gospel’ Talk 4-Part Series + Extended Preview

The 4-part series “Gospel” will premiere this Monday February 12th and 13th at 9:00-11:00 p.m. ET on PBS.

A special companion concert “Gospel Live!” will take place this Friday February 9th at 9:00 pm ET.

The new four-hour docuseries explores the rich history of Black spirituality through sermon and song.

“Gospel Live!” Presented by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., is a concert celebration honoring the legacy of Gospel music in America. This live-to-tape event is hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., that acknowledges the rich history of Gospel music and the contributions that this genre has made throughout history and culture.

Filmed in the heart of LA at Oasis Church in front of a live audience, “Gospel Live!” features performances by secular and gospel artists, and includes personal reflections from musical talent as they share how gospel music has touched their lives.

Acclaimed gospel artist Erica Campbell takes us to church as she guides viewers through the spirit of each era of Gospel’s long history. John Legend, Anthony Hamilton and The Ton3s, LaTocha, Mali Music, Lena Byrd Miles, Sheléa and Tauren Wells share songs especially arranged with music director Alonzo “Zo” Harris.

The concert features superb performances by Anthony Hamilton, who brings it home with the The Hamiltones on the classic “Something About The Name Jesus.” A song they have previously released.

Lena Byrd Miles pays tribute to the legendary Clark Sisters, with a stellar performance, while LaTocha and Tauren Wells bring secular music to the stage in their energetic performances.

From the blues to hip-hop, African Americans have been the driving force of sonic innovation for over a century. Musical styles come and go, but there is one sound that has been a constant source of strength, courage, and wisdom from the pulpit to the choir lofts on any given Sunday: the gospel.

Throughout its four hours, “Gospel” gives a look at the history of Black religious music and preaching, showcasing the symbiotic relationship of words and song present in any Black church. The series examines the origin of Black gospel music, which blended the sacred spirituals with the blues tradition and soared to new heights during the Great Migration.

This music served as an outlet for the anger and frustration of living as a Black person in America, Throughout its four hours, “Gospel” gives a look at the history of Black religious music and preaching, showcasing the symbiotic relationship of words and song present in any Black church.

The series examines the origin of Black gospel music, which blended the sacred spirituals with the blues tradition and soared to new heights during the Great Migration. This music served as an outlet for the anger and frustration of living as a Black person in America,

The 4-part series, is a well put together series, that will entertain, teach and make you clap your hands at times. The history of Gospel music, is a important part of black culture.

Watch our new interview with directors Stacey L. Holman and Shayla Harris, as they break down the series and share the importance of “gospel.”

Plus check out the extended preview spotlighting the legendary Mahalia Jackson.

Directors of “Gospel” Talk 4-Part Series + Extended Preview!