“Gospel” is a new four-hour docuseries that explores the rich history of Black spirituality through sermon and song from executive producer, host, and writer Professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr.
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.
In “Gospel,” Gates, the Alphonse Fletcher University Professor at Harvard University and director of the Hutchins Center for African American Research, speaks with dozens of clergymen, singers and scholars about their connection to the music that has transcended its origins and now spreads “the good word” all around the world. The series features interviews with notable names including Dionne Warwick, U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock, Rev. Otis Moss III, professor Michael Eric Dyson, and awe-inspiring musical performances of Gospel favorites “Can’t Nobody Do Me Like Jesus,” “Total Praise,” and others from talents including The Belle Singers, Cory Henry, Celisse and more.
In addition to the four-part series, Panhandle PBS will be airing “GOSPEL Live!” a concert special celebrating gospel music and its extraordinary impact on culture and pop music. The concert was recorded in front of a live audience and will air at 8 p.m. on Friday, February 9 on Panhandle PBS.
“Gospel” will premiere at 8 p.m. on Monday, February 12 on Panhandle PBS. The series will also be available for streaming on the PBS App and PBS.org.
