Awesome point you make here! NO, sad to say segregation in our churches has NOT come to an end in America. Too many are predominantly one race or another, or separated altogether, which is NOT what God wants.

You are SO right that the SOUND of the music is not the point but that the GOOD NEWS is what it should all be about!

Blessings on your ministry!
 

What is encouraging is that there is a large number of black people that responded positively to your blog (including me). I am curious if those who responded negatively did it in a note, rather than posting publicly in the blog.
I guess there could be two ways to view a private message that is negative... attempting to talk directly to the person without creating "drama", or just not being bold enough to speak out and create dialog that helps EVERYONE learn and grow.
We must be willing to speak openly on all subjects... not because of "opinion" (scripture says in 2 Cor 10:4-6 that we should lead every thought captive to the word of God), but so that we all can help each other better understand the word and each grow closer to Him.

I applaude your willngness to speak out... to post the blogs and bring the issues that occur in YOUR life to the rest of us (both those who read the word and those who LIVE the word). Make sure you pray for all who reply. When our brother/sister in Christ falls, we are to pick them up... when they are naked, we are to cover them... when they are out of line, we are to make an effort to encourage them back to being in line with God's word... it is what Christ expects of us.

Be blessed,
Me
 

I think it's just so nice that you are loving of all "colors" so, I wouldn't worry about what people may say negatively.

I am a white woman, but, I grew up around mostly blacks, and growing up, I just loved "Whitney Houston's" soundtrack "The Preacher's Wife," so, I'd sing it and sing it, over and over, with Whitney, and I'd try to sing like her...I didn't consider myself singing "black gospel," I just considered myself singing! My best friend who was black just loved "Sandy Patty" and she would sing to her CD's, but, I'm sure she didn't consider herself singing white Gospel. Even now, since I am married to a black man, my family is black, and I just sing the way I sing, but never think "Black Gospel," just think "Gospel?"

In the U.S., sure, there are so-called white churches and so-called black churches, but, usually anybody of any race are welcome, there are also hispanic churches and asian churches. So, it's not just the whites and blacks who are segregated, it's everybody, hispanic, asian, Egyptian Copts, etc. People just have their own style of worship that they like and they go where they feel best. I would say that the Roman Catholic church has the most mix of races in one church.

Keep blogging, don't get down by any negativity, you sound very loving and sincere and like you really want to reach out to all the "races."
 

It's all perspective. I liked your post and I like this one. Reading through responses opened my eyes in ways they hadn't been before...so it's all good. Blessings and peace, Kim
 

I thought your blog was a good point and it was taken as such... a blog is an opinion though. If an opinion is worth anything it should offend some people - that means there is truth behind it. I don't think you set out to offend anyone, but if people do get offended you have to ask yourself, "why?"

I think 'sound' is important and it tells a story. We all have favorite stories and very few of us have the same exact collection. The thing that's cool about music is that no culture really owns it even if it may have originated with a certain one. I am thankful for the African rhythmic influence... it has been huge... (I'd still be clapping on 1 & 3)... but so has the European harmonic influence!

I guess what you are saying is that the Good News (Gospel) is what it's all about more than a sound... and I agree. I can see the confusion in the words though...
 

I've been accused of being a racist, and I'm Norwegian. In reality I'm not, but the point is usually that calling someone a racist will normally get them to shut up. It's quite often a power play - manipulation.

There isn't much difference between Norwegians and Danish, I guess. Because we grew up in another (non-US) language, and English isn't our first language, we're usually not as attuned to the nuances of politically correct, which means some people will pounce on us more easily because we use politically incorrect terms.

There isn't much African-American gospel music in Norway, except the "black gospel" sung by Norwegian choirs. Why? There are very few of African descent who've been here for generations, and there are very few who originally came from the US and moved to Norway. What we do have, are first generation Africans. But they don't sing African-American gospel. They sing traditional Swahili songs, as well as the typical songs we do in a worship service in Norway. I've probably listened more to Andrae Crouch and others than they have. In London, the situation is different. The people who are pastors, worship leaders and choir leaders now, are second or third generation immigrants from the West-Indies. They have had a long time to figure out what kind of music they like, and some of them are into "black gospel".
 

I did not feel that your blog was racist at all. It only amplifies the truth that there is way to much focus on the unimportant things in this industry. My God, glorify Him!! This shouldl all be about giving Glory and Honor to the One who deserves it above all else: Jesus Christ. It's not about you offending me or using my preferred terminology because this thing is much bigger than us, Hans.

I appreciate all that you had to say. In fact the previous blog forced me to re-evaluate the Community Choir that I am about to launch. Be encouraged you're doing a good thing...and if I were you I wouldn't spend very much time defending myself - especially when you didn't do anything out of the way in the first place; but more so because as long as you're defending yourself you won't be able to recieve the other brilliant points that I'm sure you'll be inspired to share!

Much love,
Tangela
 

Hey Hans!

First I want to ask can I sing for you wherever you may happen to have a concert? PLEASE!!!???

Two, I have to inform, sadly, that because America (the North American part -- USA) has a horrid history of bad race relations and prejudiced mindset, there is division of all kinds in our churches. People tend to flock to the groups that have the same interests and racial backgrounds. The whites are in the majority here, and at times, the churches stay segregated. It's not a law, it's just the cultures that keep us separated. I really FEEL it in the air, that God's Spirit is moving people out of that. In recent years we have been integrating more and more.

As an Afro-American woman in a very racially divided St. Louis, Missouri, I made a decision that I think God orchestrated to attend a more White church. There aren't that many black people there at all, very few. There are Asians and Whites mostly. The pastor is beginning to talk about his desire for a more integrated church, representing the Body of Christ in social status and race. So I guess God is moving upon me in my time in St. Louis to do that. I know it's God, I wouldn't have made that choice on my own.

I'm sorry you've gotten some horrible comments from that blog. But if it was from an American, it's almost expected. We have some of the most dysfunctional ideas of people based on culture and race. Sorry to break it to you.

AND KEEP MAKING THE MUSIC YOU MAKE!!!! YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB!!! And I was serious about singing for you, or anyone that will let me...

Blessings,
Alexis Coleman
 

I thought your blog was great because it was HONEST! Unfortunately, these are issues that do need to be addressed, and thankfully you are doing that. Who knows, maybe you can help bring more racial unity to the Church in America. :)
 

My Brother,
it is unfortunate that we have to bring color to God's word. I have always thought if music "the universal language" couldn't bring us together, nothing could. Now, I am not so much concerned about the sound, I listen for the lyrics. Sounding great is a bonus, being the song sung by black or white.
I've been told I have a white sound and that I should appeal to the white audience and I would be more successful. I was insulted ofcourse, only because I am not led by what people think, but where God sends me. I've been blessed to minister all over the world and no matter where I've gone, I am told I was a blessing, get this, even in the Middle East. To sum up what I am trying to say is, don't consume yourself with labels, peoples opinions, and the color issue. Just do what God has assigned you to do, sing the songs and please God in doing so. The person God wants ot to reach will hear it and it will minister to them, black, white, and tan. Be Blessed! Yvonne Marie
 

Yvonne marie, you just sing your little heart out for God and don't worry about what the people say about your voice cause it doesn't matter. You are doing it for Him,,,god bless you!!!
 

Man, don't apologize for truth. The post you did was excellent. It was the truth. Not everyone appreciates truth. Don't feel bad, don't feel out line man. This is something we need more of. It inspires me to take more responsibility in my music as a christian....and I thought I already took music seriously. Thanks again.
 

When we all get to HEAVEN, what a day of rejoicing that will be...
 

Just keep pressing, Hans...there will always be opposition because of ignorance, jealousy or foolishness. If we start catering to fools, we will always be on a fools errand. Music of the Gospel comes in all different colors and accents, so that it may reach everyone. Keep doing what you do, in the way God has asked you to do it. May we all be as obedient.

Big Hugs!
Indira
 

I agree with all the above. You spoke the truth. Some people can handle it, some can't, but don't you ever apologize for it.
Your blog was excellent - Keep it up!

Much love,
Lotte
 

Hans,

You said

"My problem is with the majority of white (read: mainly European) singers and choirs that tries SO hard to sound black. As if the black sound was magic. So what if a choir can imitate the sound of Fred Hammond? Does that make it GOSPEL music. "

You also said

"Conclusion: White, black, yellow or blue people ALL fail in making gospel music – if they only focus on the SOUND. However, if they focus on the message – you CAN be white, blue or green, and it will STILL be real gospel music!!! "

I agree with you. I think it is sad that some of your critics may have missed your point entirerly. I will go a step further and say Its too bad when churchs only focus on sound to the point they sound plastic and everything becomes more of a show than a worship service. Trust me I have been to some churchs like this. I think the most important thing is to let the band be themselfs and to allow the holy spirit to move through out the worship service unhindered be our formats or preconcieved notions of performance. The most important thing for the musicians and singers to keep in mind is that it is ALL about Jesus. Not about us or any skill or talent we may have.

Peace to you and God Bless

Marcus
 

You can never know what is in anothers' heart.
The sound we make is the sound that comes out. Labeling others in the way they "sound" is not going to matter one way or another. Listen to J. Moss, I can never sound like him, but his words taken from scripture, is undeniable. I love his music. Just as I love gospel music.
To make a joyful noise is what I am after, whether I sound black, white, or hispanic. To me there is too much emphasis on what everyone else is doing, rather than focusing on what you are doing. I read your blogs, I see your point, but God didn't tell us to sound like our color. He told us to love one another, and be at peace.
I wouldn't call you racist, or segregatory. I call you- you, a blessed man, with many talents, and to live in the same lifetime as you is a blessing.
 

You can never know what is in anothers' heart.
The sound we make is the sound that comes out. Labeling others in the way they "sound" is not going to matter one way or another. Listen to J. Moss, I can never sound like him, but his words taken from scripture, is undeniable. I love his music. Just as I love gospel music.
To make a joyful noise is what I am after, whether I sound black, white, or hispanic. To me there is too much emphasis on what everyone else is doing, rather than focusing on what you are doing. I read your blogs, I see your point, but God didn't tell us to sound like our color. He told us to love one another, and be at peace.
I wouldn't call you racist, or segregatory. I call you- you, a blessed man, with many talents, and to live in the same lifetime as you is a blessing.
 

No Hans..many of us didn't take your blog as being one of a "racist" tone..in all honesty you spoke what really is prevalent in many areas. I think you were more observant..as well as others and myself in this particular area and it's not a thought just in your area but here as well. Example.. and I hope no one takes this the wrong way. Our choir was always invited to our neighboring pentecostal church for their workshops and vice versa. They were or are predomintaley white and we of course was or is predomintaley black. This happened many years ago but your blog brought it back to my mind..but when we would go to their workshop the common question was asked.."How can we get that sound?"...And until that very moment I never really "thought" about this "sound." Over the years I have heard people make similar remarks regarding a "sound"..missing the point you so wonderfully made.."White, black, yellow or blue people ALL fail in making gospel music – if they only focus on the SOUND"..I have gone into various services and have heard people make statements regarding the "sound" and though I was ministered too and blessed the individuals missed the move of God looking or listening for a sound... So I applaud you for this blog and I pray that you will continue to express these thoughts even more...God Bless You...BJ
 

YES! Once again, brilliantly stated. The church I play in currently is truly mixed in terms of race - in addition to the typical white crowd, large numbers of our fairly large congregation are of Latin American, African-American, or Haitian origin (I live in South Florida!). I feel very fortunate to be a part of a very much integrated group of people. Yes, we do a lot of the typical music that most American choirs do, but our overall sound as a group is not specific of any culture, and I feel that it's because we encompass such a multicultural society. It's one of the few things that I really, really love about where I live.

On the other hand, you're absolutely right...throughout this country are segregated churches by the thousands. I think it's a shame! All are missing a chance to learn from one another!

Peace...
MooT
 

YO, I'M FEELIN' YOU BROTHER!!!YOUR SPIRIT IS PURE AND I UNDERSTAND WHERE YOU ARE COMING FROM,FOR REAL!!!THE GOSPEL SAYS TO AVOID THE KIND OF DEBATES THAT CREATE CONTROVERSY THOUGH!!!(MEANING WHETHER OR NOT WE ARE SUPPOSE TO EAT MEAT OR GO TO CHURCH ON SATURDAY OR SUNDAY).WE HAVE CHOICE AND WE ARE NOT UNDER THE LAW ANYMORE,BUT,WHATEVER YOUR OPINION ON THE SUBJECT IS IRRELEVANT TO WHETHER YOU "ACCEPT" THE GOOD NEWS OR NOT!!!STICK TO SPREADING THE GOOD NEWS,WHICH YOU ARE CALLED TO DO IN A VERY BIG WAY!!!YOUR BRO AND ONCE AGAIN I ***LOVE***YOUR STYLE BRO,ISRAEL
 

I MEANT EAT "PORK"!!!ALSO, I HAVE INCORPORATED A NON-PROFIT "THE INTERRACIAL PEACE FOUNDATION",VERY INTERESTED IN YOU BEING A PART OF IT!!!I KNOW OUR FATHER HAS BROUGHT US TOGETHER FOR A REASON!!!THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT SPEAKS LOUD AND CLEAR THROUGH YOU...PRAISE THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST!!!YOUR BROTHER,ISRAEL
 

Dear Hans Christian

First of all - You sure know how to make A Catchy Headline :-)

Now, I have read the blog in question again. And I just can't find anything that indicates that you promote segregation in any way.

With this blog you have made your point even more distinct – I give you an Amen!

Peace and love.
 

Hello Hans, In reading your blog I fail to see what people would object to. One thing we need to come to terms with is that there is an ethnic differance in many things people all around the globe do everyday. It is the differance/distinction between us ethnicly in our worship etc. that makes us all so special to GOD. In the states we have an ice cream franchise called Baskin - Robbins and they bragg about thier 31 varieties of ice cream. Each is an ice cream yet distinct from each other. Some folks like only 1 kind some 5 kind some 20 kind and some, the true lover of ice cream loves all of them. GOD is like the true lover of us, and all worship that is aimed at him he loves it all. It shows how we each show how we feel in our hearts toward him. Now, some individuals are able to sing black gospel that are white and some people of color are able to sing and sound so white that unless you open your eyes and see him you would think he is white. In short , it is all good when GOD gets the glory for the talent and the inspiration when we sing unto him. When we start picking apart worship music as to color of the singer or writer it is hard in my mind to keep focused on the LORD. My advice to people with issues such as this is , let GOD sort it out. We need the flesh out of our worship, and the LORD of the Bible in our worship. As to the gifts of GOD , when PAUL said some have the gift of tongues, some prophesy, some interperitation etc., music is much the same. Let us be lead of the spirit (that shows us our kinship in CHRIST and unites us) and not the flesh (that would show us the differance) and divide us. As to myself, I love the black gospel sound, yet my wife sings American country gospel and I like that also, but I still keep comming back to the black gospel. We have learned to live togeather in harmony with both of us favoring differant types of music. I believe the world can too, If we are who we say we are (Authentic Christians ) and not just in name. Think on it folks an eternity depends on it. IHS Rev. Craig Edelmann
 

Sadly, you are right about some of the churches in America still being dominated by one race or another. It's not because people of other colors are not welcome, I guess it just happens this way. I would love to look out over the congregation from the platform on a Sunday morning and see a sea of faces of all different colors and cultures all intermingled. I moved here from NYC where there was great diversity and so it is strange for me to be in a church and not be the minority. I love Martha, too. We have our own private worship in the car all the time.
 

I didn't find your blog racist or offensive. It is what it is. Don't let them to deter you from doing what has been laid on your heart. I like that you've inspired some honest dialogue! Be encouraged!
 

LISTEN....AND LISTEN GOOD!!! THERE IS NO SEGREGATION IN THE SIGHT OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST!!! DONT LET PEOPLE AND THEIR IGNORANCE TO THE WORD GET UNDER YOUR SKIN. IT DOESNT MATTER TO JESUS IF YOU ARE BLACK, WHITE, YELLOW, PURPLE OR GREEN. YOU ARE ONE OF HIS CREATIONS CREATED EQUAL IN HIS LIKENESS. YOU, MY BROTHER, CONTINUE IN THE WORD. YOU, MY BROTHER, CONTINUE TO LET THE LORD USE YOU WITH THE GIFT OF MUSIC HE HAS GIVEN TO YOU.
PRAY FOR THE IGNORANCE OF THOSE WHO ARE BLIND TO THE WORD.
LOOK AT ME. DO I LOOK BLACK OR WHITE. YES, I LOOK WHITE. I WAS RAISED BY A BLACK FAMILY, BORN TO A WHITE WOMAN WHO ACCORDING TO MY FATHER, DIDNT WANT TO HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH A BLACK BABY AND LEFT ME WHEN I WAS FOUR MONTHS OLD.IT DOESNT MATTER TO ME WHAT PEOPLE THINK I AM OTHER THAN A CHILD OF GOD. GOD DOESNT SEE COLOR WHEN HE LOOKS AT US AND WHY SHOULD WE. DONT BE DISCOURAGED BY THE IGNORANT.
 

Hans,

I think that music is segregated mostly because if it wasn't, black gospel music would win all the awards or none of the awards. sort of like the oscars.
 

Perception is indeed one's reality. Nevermind those who try to make something out of nothing. You had very valid points in your original blog as well as this one but just as people to with the Word, they're gonna take from it whatever they please for whatever reason.

Keep doin what you're doin and make music the way God gives it to YOU! Continue to encourage others to truly hear from God as they continue to find/cultivate their sound!

Peace and God's blessings to you!!!
 

Bother i get ur point and yes is not only for one person is for WHOEVER GOD WANT to use to abance his kingdom iif God want to use u to be the first one to do it go ahead is not what people say is God say we forget that sometimes is all about him and reaching for soul that u can minister to the music and be thankful to God that u are the first one that is a privilege because to God there is no limit obede God and he will glorify is for him to get the gloery he is looking for people to do his will are u ready to do so .
 

Hmmm....some folk just like to get a good debate going. The negative folk would not understand what you were expressing, especially if they had not experienced both sides of the comment you were trying to make. I enjoyed your HONEST opinion regarding the subject. Keep on speaking the Truth Sir!
 

Let me tell you something, racism, I think, will never end in this country. Martin Luther King made a big contribution by stopping it, but he only went but so far. We commend him on his establishment. Unfortunately, there's a lot more cleaning up to do in this country, a whole lot. This might sound a little harsh but if it wasn't for the majority whom dwells in this country, and at the time where racism was a major problem in this country than it is now. If at that time the majority didn't categorize people, I assure there would be no such word as racism now, period in this country. Hence they wouldn't be no King, no Rosa Parks etc. This goes as well for the church, even though I go to a culturally diverse church and there are other churches like mine in the U.S., sadly there are more segregated churches or I would like to say, purist churches in this country. God is not racist, nor does he think of people categorically. He is the God man. So if Christians in this country or even world wide attempt to think with a purist ideological view of how church congregations should be as far as race, then you should really as yourself are really a Christian. Hans, you are the man and I totally agree with you. Your music sounds great. God bless you doc.
 

Let me tell you something, racism, I think, will never end in this country. Martin Luther King made a big contribution by stopping it, but he only went but so far. We commend him on his establishment. Unfortunately, there's a lot more cleaning up to do in this country, a whole lot. This might sound a little harsh but if it wasn't for the majority whom dwells in this country, and at the time where racism was a major problem in this country than it is now. If at that time the majority didn't categorize people, I assure there would be no such word as racism now, period in this country. Hence they wouldn't be no King, no Rosa Parks etc. This goes as well for the church, even though I go to a culturally diverse church and there are other churches like mine in the U.S., sadly there are more segregated churches or I would like to say, purist churches in this country. God is not racist, nor does he think of people categorically. He is the God of man. So if Christians in this country or even world wide attempt to think with a purist ideological view of how church congregations should be as far as race, then you should really as yourself are really a Christian. Hans, you are the man and I totally agree with you. Your music sounds great. God bless you doc.
 

Let me tell you something, racism, I think, will never end in this country. Martin Luther King made a big contribution by stopping it, but he only went but so far. We commend him on his establishment. Unfortunately, there's a lot more cleaning up to do in this country, a whole lot. This might sound a little harsh but if it wasn't for the majority whom dwells in this country, and at the time where racism was a major problem in this country than it is now. If at that time the majority didn't categorize people, I assure there would be no such word as racism now, period in this country. Hence they wouldn't be no King, no Rosa Parks etc. This goes as well for the church, even though I go to a culturally diverse church and there are other churches like mine in the U.S., sadly there are more segregated churches or I would like to say, purist churches in this country. God is not racist, nor does he think of people categorically. He is the God of man. So if Christians in this country or even world wide attempt to think with a purist ideological view of how church congregations should be as far as race is concern, then you should really ask yourself are really a Christian. Hans, you are the man and I totally agree with you. Your music sounds great. God bless you doc.
 

Let me tell you something, racism, I think, will never end in this country. Martin Luther King made a big contribution by stopping it, but he only went but so far. We commend him on his establishment. Unfortunately, there's a lot more cleaning up to do in this country, a whole lot. This might sound a little harsh but if it wasn't for the majority whom dwells in this country, and at the time where racism was a major problem in this country than it is now. If at that time the majority didn't categorize people, I assure there would be no such word as racism now, period in this country. Hence they wouldn't be no King, no Rosa Parks etc. This goes as well for the church, even though I go to a culturally diverse church and there are other churches like mine in the U.S., sadly there are more segregated churches or I would like to say, purist churches in this country. God is not racist, nor does he think of people categorically. He is the God of man. So if Christians in this country or even world wide attempt to think with a purist ideological view of how church congregations should be as far as race is concern, then you should really ask yourself are really a Christian. Hans, you are the man and I totally agree with you. Your music sounds great. God bless you doc.
 

I do not believe that your blog was racist at all. You pointed out some facts that people can not accept. Sorry for them. Anyway , keep walking and doing what the Lord has put in your heart. He has the final say. God Bless You!
 

Hans,

You are right. Everybody can not sing Black Gospel music. I am not racist and I do see your point. There are a lot of people who try and I say to them bless their hearts. I have also ran into a lot of people who can as well. My advice to anyone is to be an original and not a copycat. What God has for you is for you. Good article and I do not take any offense to your article.

Minister Job T. Cannon
 

I read the blog and not once did it come off as you being racist. Bottom line, you can't please everyone in the world. Let's keep those people in prayer in hopes the Lord will open their hearts to see the truth!
 

You know what? I´m tired of racial issues. I´m glad to be raised "color blind". This flesh, that has a pigmentation of whatever color is just a shell, as soon as we pass away, we will not be taking it with us. There is NO differentiation in the Spirit! We have to look back and remind ourselves and other people that we are spirit beings in a shell, just trying to make it to heaven and make a difference on the way. I also don´t believe in "black" gospel, why? Because as I said we are spirit beings and don´t have a color, we are GODs color or glow (we´ll see when we get there), all the same, the only thing that makes us different are our callings and giftings. I believe no matter what color your shell is, you should sing to GOD, make a joyful noise, praise and worship Him as His Spirit leads!
Music automatically gets a name or style stamped on it, the world started that and compromising Christians picked it up. What the people should do in music ministry is glorify GOD and that shouldn´t be labeled. I haven´t read anything about gospel music, christian rock, contemporary christian music, etc.. in the Bible, have you??? There are only psalms, songs and hymns. It´s all making a joyfull noise unto Him, giving the honor and glory that is due to Him. We shouldn´t waste time labeling things, what does it do for us? Nothing. It doesn´t give us anything. Our spirit expresses gratitude, love, joy, hope, peace, and so much more toward the GOD that saved us from eternal damnation, giving us power from on high and allowing us to fellowship with Him. Concentrate on the things of GOD and don´t be inspired by the world for a list of names you can call your music and even colorize it. If you want to color grab some crayons!
GOD gives us the talent for music so that we can glorify Him, touch peoples lives, bring them closer to GOD, minister to them. It´s not about "black" gospel it´s about GOD! Who cares what people say or think? Grow up people! It´s not time to be discussing racial issues, we are to be about our Fathers buisness! Racism is a problem, but instead of discussing it pray about and go out and minister to people! Let us take up our cross and follow Him, that does not mean debating, it means action!
I know some people won´t like what I wrote, but you know what? I don´t care. Take it to GOD. I´m here to make a difference in peoples lives, not please man, but GOD only. I´ll give it to you straight, I don´t sugar coat things and neither does my GOD.

2 Timothy 4:1-5
1 I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.


Amen.
 

Well, Hans. You have picked the perfect topic. I was looking for music to listen to on my computer at work the other day since the radio will not catch any good stations. I was shocked to see so many different groups to choose from example: Gospel, Christian, Contemporary Christian, Contemporary Gospel. My thought was "WHAT?" The plan of the enemy is to cause division. Same with religion. Baptist, Pentecostal, Catholic, Lutheran, Moran, Methodist ect.. God is not going back for one group of anything but a true believer of who He is and what He has done for us. US! White, black, Jew, Russian, ect…. A group of believers. By no means is your blog racist and for those that feel that way, well they need to see with their spiritual eyes. For my people perish for the lack of knowledge. This blog is to do just what it has done brought us closer together and on one accorded with the fact that the devil is defeat once again. What he meant for evil was turned into good.

Hans to encourage you to continue to speak the Word rightly dividing it. Truth vs. Faults.
Has Sandra has stated in her response “You know what? I’m tired of racial issues. I’m glad to be raised "color blind". This flesh, that has a pigmentation of whatever color is just a shell, as soon as we pass away, we will not be taking it with us. There is NO differentiation in the Spirit! We have to look back and remind ourselves and other people that we are spirit beings in a shell.”

To sum up all your blogs. We wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities in dark places.
The Devil was the Lead Musician over all the music in heaven and he still has his hands in that area and will try any means to bring about division. If we will resist him he will flee. What we do is attack each other in the meantime. No, your not racist at all. Stay encourage the devil is on his post and by you posting these blogs Your on yours to awaken and enlighten the truth.

My prayers are with you
Evang. J. Rice
 

Good Day!!
I have enjoyed reading this supplement to the original blog! It is very interesting reading the variety of responses! Music comes from your heart no matter how one thinks it may sound good /reasonable/not so good/gospel/punk/rock/Good News ~people sing & it sends a message be it happiness/sadness/Joy/anger/ frustration/Loneliness :::music is a release of ones sole ,ones emotions/feelings /it is a language , a way of communicating it is human nature to share our sole in this manner, i do not think any reply/response should be taken as negative! Everything that is communicated from one person to another is worthy of listening to & respecting > I personally do not believe there is such a thing as a negative response, EVERYTHING is worthy of listening to /respecting/and being non judgmental in YOUR RESPONSE & THOUGHTS. On the racial aspects! Well Assimilation is more the word! one has to assimilate with another , we have to consciously take an interest in others culture & differences, and day to day lives/choices *I mean are we always interested in what/how the Chinese lady who lives next door , cooks for dinner of course not Live & let Live! If all black people fill a church? So what it merely means!! There happy! At that point & time! DO NOT JUDGE ANOTHER. KEEP YOUR THOUGHTS PURE at all times. It works, it works well with practice, and then we will see an improvement in our world, maybe like the Garden of Eden. :) Have a wonderful happy Easter! Peace on Earth & Goodwill to All Men.Denise.
 

hhha! well folks
if i had off spelt soul correctly it may of been much better !! oppsa daisy !! regard Denise
 

You are halarious!!! I understand you. I do, however, believe that their are so many colors to this topic that we might discuss it forever and never get any further than we are right now. When I was a music major, my voice teacher tried his best to get me to stop singing gospel music the "black" way. Aren't you afraid that you will lose your voice--he said? Andre Crouch and Walter Hawkins are good, he said, but the rest of it is screaming. Don't you like this aria...? Yes I said to him. I like areias and operas but my soul is moved by Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Winans and Shirly Ceasar, and the list goes on. I could sing the arias the "white" way with proper placement and diaphramatic support. But I could also effective lead a song with the "Gospel" choir that was authentic and true. So if I can do it I don't see why white people can't.

Peace
 

Well said. You probably wouldn't know from the music on my page now, but gospel ('black gospel') is my favorite - and when I sing it, I don't care what color I sound like - I just care that Jesus hears me (but I've been told I sound black - I also live in Maine, USA where for many I'm as black as they'll ever see).
I believe the term "gospel music" was first coined by Thomas Dorsey ("Precious Lord") shortly after the turn of the twentieth century. He was a blues producer in Chicago, but his life turned around when a big black baptist preacher pulled a snake out his (Dorsey's) throat at a revival meeting. From then on he recorded/produced christian music calling it "gospel" because he could no longer call it "blues." Same music - different message. Now of course the term is much broader, but originally one wouldn't say 'black gospel' - because that's all gospel was.
I can't wait to do a gospel album - once again, hard sell in Maine.
 

I am an African American vocalist, vocal coach, producer and choir director who has been living in Europe for over 10 years. I have had the experience of working with singers from all over the globe but mostly white europeans since residing in europe.

It is absolutely true that the vast majority of white (in this case, European) singers are looking for that balck sound in their voices. It is difficult to explain to my white counterparts that black music is not just a sound, but it is a conglomeration of roots, culture, background, muical influences, spirit, soul, church and so many other factors that are prevelant in black African American communities but nonexistant in white European cultures.

Can white people sing gospel? The answer is "in there own way", a gospel reflecting their own background, culture and experiences. Have I ever heard a white choir that "sounds black"? The answer is a resounding NO. I have heard white choirs who are terrible in Europe and also choirs that sound great and spread this music in their own way.

A few years ago an Italian friend told me that there was a gospel choir in Oslo who sounded like a black American gospel choir. Although I was pretty sure that that was not the case, I must admit that I was curious. I went to the Oslo Gospel Choir website and listened to some samples and although the sound was tight, clean and very musical, the choir absolutely does NOT sound like a black choir. They do however resemble some of the great mixed choirs in America such as Brooklyn Tabernacle and Christ Church. Undoubtedly, it is usually a white person who will refer to another white singer as sounding black, but to answer this question, it is always better to ask the experts.

As for the phenomenal Martha Munizzi, she is without a doubt a phenomenal preacher, composer and singer, but noone of color would ever mistake her soulful inspirational singing voice for a "black voice" although her writing style is definitely rooted in African Amferican musical influences.

Gospel, like jazz, blues, soul and other black musical genres is not only a sound, it is a reflection of the culture and history that goes deep into the souls of black people in America.
Simply put, "Everybody wants to sing my blues, but nobody wants to live my blues". LJ

Great books to read on the subject:

Blues People by Amiri Baraka
Jazz in Black and White by Charles Gerard
White Boy Singing the Blues by Michael Bane
Yearning: Race, Gender and Cultural Politics by Bell Hooks
Introduction to Black Aesthetics in Music by Jimmy Stewart


Respectfully Submitted,
Cheryl Porter
 

Hans, I agree with you. I took the time to read your blog on the subject and I didn't take you as being "racist." It's all in one's perception that will determine how they take things. I believe that when people saw the title of your blog they went in with preconceived ideas about it and figured that you were a racist. There weren't listening (if I may) to what you were saying in the blog...they were listening to those little people up in their heads. However, I agree with you. I've seen in black churches (no harm meant) where they've moved from the black gospel style of music to singing what most would say "white people's music" (no harm meant) because they feel that it will make their church grow if they change. I've seen it. I have a pastor friend of mine right now dealing with his musicians who have been visiting frequently a particular 95% white church here in Maryland and they're going back telling my pastor friend that we're worshipping wrong and we need to change our style so that we can attract more people. So, though my pastor friend allow them to mix the music he doesn't agree with them. I don't understand. I feel that we should be able to take a song that a black or white person sings and sing it the way we would sing it in our own style. It supposed to be the Lord's music but I guess you all know what I'm saying. I think it's sad the way people carry on over this. Good blog my brother. Be blessed.
 

Why should a church have to change its style to attract a greater congregation? It isn't the size of the congrgation that makes a church, its the hearts of the people in the church. Yes, there are financial benefits and other benefits to having a larger congregation but the church is grounded in faith so any real considerations should be dealt with through prayer. Regarding music, people are given their talents and need to work out the genre that suits them best and be true to themselves. These are simply my thoughts because I am not a church-going person. Jaz
 

The "African-American-Gospel-Music-Style" is a deep-rooted tradition traced back to the 18th century where the Negro Spiritual found it's origins - most notably in a call/response fashion.... something that is still widely-used today in modern African American Gospel Music. This tradition is why you won't (unfortunately) commonly find this style in churches outside of North America. This also plays a heavy role in diversification in churches - especially ones whose doctrine is more traditional. Another point is that when you go to any church, the music is representative of the members who make up the church body. You aren't going to find a traditional black church performing a Beethoven Mass, or a traditional white church whose Sunday's selections all come from Hezekiah Walkers latest CD. The foundation of music at any church has almost everything to do with that of the church's foundation. Personally, I don't find shouting "Halleluia" , or "Praise the Lord" exclusive to the African American tradition - as I have also seen it in more charismatic churches with a predominantly white or hispanic congregation.

Secondly, the gospel music industry is just that - an INDUSTRY. And at the root of that industry is money. It's a Catch 22. Your profitablilty and marketability are essential. Unless you are that new "It Factor," you may be forced to sell yourself out a little bit just to get out there. That's common in all facets of the industry. And I hate to say it, but all music is entertainment. Gospel artists sell out stadiums, make T-shirts, CD's, DVD's, spawn book deals, etc. Just getting some of these artists to appear on your stage can cost in excess of $25,000. Gospel music is a spiritual entertainment backed by major record labels, some of whom sign groups that are polar opposites of what Gospel music is supposed to represent.

The bottom line is that all cultures have their own "style" of praise and worship - and it can and IS reflected in their music. I say if it moves you, then do it. Don't concern yourself with the matters of man - to God be the glory. I was the only white boy to sing with Grammy-nominated Ricky Dillard & New G, and I felt right at home. I honestly don't see color lines at all - which has everything to do with culturally-rich upbringing. I guess I am a bit confused... you are upset that you are the only white man at American gospel music conferences, yet you appear equally upset that European gospel choirs are getting their influence from American Gospel music. At the same, with your apparent love for American gospel music, and attendance of said workshops in America, where are you getting YOUR influence? So is emulation such a bad thing? I do have to say that your characterization of gospel music in general does appear a bit one-sided. Even within American gospel music, there are groups that have a similar sound. There are white people in every genre of modern music, and there are black people in every genre of modern music. Embrace that. Celebrate and understand our cultural differences. I love the American Gospel tradition - it's what saved my soul - and I am white. So if it does the same for someone in Europe, then what is the problem? While it is apparent that there are differences in white vs. black gospel music, I don't think we should marginalize something so universal as music and something so serious and profound as God. It's that very marginalization that keeps us separated. We all serve the same God. So if an all white choir out there somewhere wants to have a sound like Hezekiah's of Hammond's choir - then more power to them. As long as their worship is real, then who cares? And who are we to judge?
 

"2. I only talk about gospel in Europe! I can't find an "African-American-Gospel-Music-Style" church in Denmark anywhere! Man, if I could I would be there all the time! The blog was about white people in Europe doing Black gospel from America!"

If you can't find one, start your own: Alot of churches in the America started with just a hand full of people. I know Europe is different, but Demark is similar to Germany. There is no restrictions on religions, is there?
 

When we are followers of Christ.. Race should disappear.. We are all called to love eachother and become ONE body in Christ. I realize that segragation is still a big issue these days, but we all need to strive to work towards unity. Its sad that we all sit around analyzing someones words on something this simple, but hey that is Satan trying to turn our focus off of friend ship.
So in the words of TobyMac...
'He said, she said, I said this, that you can't get away from your moment of bliss
Stirring, we’ll lure you in and we'll make room for the shade of skin
Short ones, tall ones, skinny ones, bigger. Love is the gun and we pullin' that trigger
so you send me and I’ll send you hope in the form of a new tattoo
Mine is the shiny city on a hill and yours, of course, is the colors that fill it'

" If we are gonna be
that city on a hill, we have
to be a diverse city.”-TobyMac