Michelle Obama Is Right About Gospel Music
Article By News Staff/ Photo Credit: GETTY
Millions around the world turn to gospel music as a source of comfort and encouragement, and to set the tone for their personal time of devotion.
Among them is Christian first lady, Michelle Obama, who says the genre is "what helps connect us to God.”
She spoke of the benefits of gospel Tuesday at a “History of Gospel Music” interactive workshop for students—the educational component of the annual "In Performance at the White House" concert series.
This year, Mrs. Obama and President Barack Obama welcomed gospel artists to the White House to lift their voices in song. Shirley Caesar, Michelle Williams, Tamela Mann, Rance Allen and others participated. Their performances will air on PBS June 26.
"For so many, when times have darkened, when there's struggle, gospel music is that ray of hope and it gives you that strength,” said Obama.
She’s right.
Gospel music is a part of the fabric of our culture, transcending racial, cultural and religious barriers. Many who don’t practice Christianity, embrace the music that promotes it, because of its comforting message of hope.
Mrs. Obama said gospel music was the first genre she was exposed to growing up, which awakened a desire to play the piano. Though she began lessons at age four, "I didn't keep it up," she said.
"There's nothing like hearing a choir sing an old gospel track," she continued. "When you hear that, it gets your feet tapping and your heart pumping."
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