Honors College Theses
Publication Date
3-4-2021
Major
English (B.A.)
Document Type and Release Option
Thesis (open access)
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Joe Pellegrino
Abstract
The images found throughout African American religious songs are timeless, yet they reflect the realities of their particular historical and cultural contexts, explaining those circumstances from the view of the African American community. Despite the differences in sound, there is a strong sense of continuity between each era, as compositions from slave songs to rap use certain passages from scripture to emphasize the themes of freedom, hope, and perseverance. From the spiritual to the gospel to contemporary religious rap, both history and hope have been lifted up and transformed in the voices of oppressed and enduring African Americans.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Konner B., "From Camp Meetings to Crusades: African American Religious Songs in Context" (2021). Honors College Theses. 550.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/honors-theses/550
