9 May 2025

Five moments Gospel Music influenced popular culture

Gospel music holds a powerful position in music and culture! Let's look back to some of the moments when Gospel music made a significant impact on popular culture!

 

  1. Aretha Franklin’s “Amazing Grace” Album (1972) and Film (2018)
    Aretha Franklin’s live gospel album "Amazing Grace" became the best-selling gospel album of all time. Its influence reached new generations when the documentary film of its recording sessions was released in 2018, reigniting global interest in gospel music.

    2. Kirk Franklin’s “Stomp” Hits Mainstream Radio (1997)
    Kirk Franklin’s hit “Stomp,” blending gospel with hip-hop and R&B, broke genre barriers by becoming widely played on mainstream urban radio and music video channels, bringing gospel culture to a larger audience.

    3. Kingdom Choir at the Royal Wedding (2018)
    The Kingdom Choir’s stirring rendition of “Stand By Me” at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding was broadcast to millions worldwide, making gospel music a central part of a major pop culture event.

    4. Sister Act Films (1992 & 1993)
    The “Sister Act” movies, starring Whoopi Goldberg, brought gospel choir music to international moviegoers, making songs like “Oh Happy Day” and “Joyful, Joyful” pop culture staples and inspiring a new generation of choir enthusiasts.

    5. Kanye West’s Sunday Service (2019-present)
    Kanye West’s Sunday Service performances, blending gospel music with contemporary hip-hop and pop, drew celebrities, large crowds, and widespread media attention—culminating in the Grammy-winning album “Jesus Is King” and bringing gospel sounds to mainstream stages and festivals.
 
 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Premier Gospel | Radio Station (@premiergospel)

These moments show how gospel music continues to influence, inspire, and shape popular culture across the globe.

Which moment from Gospel music’s influence in popular culture stands out to you?

 

Nathana Afonso

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