Gospel Music Review February 2020

For certain, gospel music is alive and continues to encourage and inspire the hearer. God has not changed; His Word remains and the messages promoted through gospel music can still change lives. What has dramatically changed over the last decade is access to gospel music. Have you ever asked, “What’s new in gospel music these days?”  or “What’s the name of that song the praise team sang Sunday?”  There are many great songs from a mixture of new, and some of our all-time favorite artists. Where or how can you find them? Glad you asked; I’m happy to offer answers!  

Technology has enabled the gospel genre to be heard throughout the world like never before.  With the Internet of Things (IOT), anyone desiring to hear gospel music is able to do so.  Just say, “Play today’s top gospel hits” from your favorite smart device; turn to the gospel channel on cable, satellite TV or a Sirius/XM radio; or stream online using Pandora, Spotify, Apple Music, Google, Amazon Music, or YouTube. The internet provides a wealth of access and opportunity to hear the latest chart toppers as well as traditional favorites.

For those seeking recommendations on what’s hot on the charts or across the nation, below are 5 of my current favorites:

1. “Make Room” by Jonathan McReynolds.  A reminder to put God first. (Matt 6:33)
2. “Won’t Let Go” by Travis Green.  The Lord is our strength in weakness (2 Cor 12:10)
3. “Pull Us Though” by Jermaine Dolly (featuring Maranda Curtis).  We win in the end.  (Romans 8:31-39)
4. “I Made It Out” by John P. Kee Feat. Zacardi Cortez.  The Lord carries us through and delivers us out of the storms of life. (Psalm 23:4)
5. “Praying and Believing” by Erica Campbell.  Prayer Still Works!!!  (1 John 5:14-15)

In addition to being among the top on the charts, the selections above were chosen based on the following criteria:

1. Bible:  Is the song supported by or affirmed in Scripture?  Some songs are catchy, make us dance, or fill us with emotions but are lacking in biblical truth. 
2. The Trinity:  We worship and serve God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Reference to at least one member of the Godhead is essential.
3. Musicality:  I tend to listen to music with a critical ear. Musicianship, production, lyrical content, and vocal techniques are all noteworthy elements.  Psalms 33:3 says, “Sing a new song to Him; play skillfully on the strings, with a joyful shout.”
4. Ministering:  Songs that speak to the heart, spirit, and life situations are the most penetrating. Some days call for “Precious Lord, Take My Hand,” while other days inspire “He’s Able.” The right song at the right moment can shift perspective and attitude.

No matter your preference-traditional or contemporary, choir, praise team, or quartet-there’s something for every liking within the gospel music genre. Be encouraged to listen to gospel music daily for regular inspiration; your heart and spirit will be blessed.