Louisiana Music: A Gospel Music Primer
Discover Louisiana's deep gospel music roots, from the birthplace of "The Queen of Gospel," Mahalia Jackson, to the first-of-its-kind gospel brunch.
At a Glance
- Louisiana gospel music is a cornerstone of the state’s musical heritage, combining spiritual worship, African American traditions and dynamic choral harmonies.
- Popular spots to hear live Louisiana gospel music in New Orleans include the House of Blues, Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts and during the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Gospel Music History
The Mississippi River was the baptismal water of the young Mahalia Jackson, the gospel legend who would take her melodic message from her hometown of New Orleans to the world. Although Jackson left the city at age 16 to call Chicago home, she continued to embrace the flavor of New Orleans in her vocal style and fabled cooking. She was to gospel as the trumpeter and vocalist Louis Armstrong was to jazz; Both legends became ambassadors of New Orleans and its rich musical heritage.
Fittingly, the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts is located inside Louis Armstrong Park just across North Rampart Street from the French Quarter. Jackson, who died on January 27, 1972, was laid to rest at Providence Memorial Park on Airline Drive in Metairie, Louisiana.
Gospel Music & Family Life
Gospel music is part and parcel of Louisiana life, and other noteworthy gospel groups include the Zion Travelers Spiritual Singers from Baton Rouge. The Zion Travelers’ unique acapella vocals have been broadcast in Baton Rouge every Sunday morning since 1946.
Family gospel groups are in abundance throughout New Orleans. Lois Dejean, a mover and shaker in the gospel community for decades, followed in the musical footsteps of her father and grandfather. When her family ensemble, the Johnson Extension, takes the stage it represents six generations of vocalists.
Jackson Square
Irma Thomas
New Orleans
Jazz Fest
The Jazz Fest Gospel Tent
The annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has introduced locals and visitors alike to the wealth of gospel artists in the state with its “Gospel Tent.” It showcases a great range of the genre’s styles including old-time, testifying quartets such as the popular Charles Jackson and the Jackson Travelers and the incredible, country-tinged Electrifying Crown Seekers — with a soloist who sings in falsetto and then goes up for the high notes! Church choirs like the mighty Tyrone Foster and the Arc Singers and strong young voices from school ensembles such as the McDonogh 35 High School Choir bring great exuberance.
Gospel Music in New Orleans
Because of the popularity of gospel music with secular listeners, New Orleans has long enjoyed a reputation for its legendary jazz brunches. House of Blues — created the first-of-its-kind gospel brunch — a warm, lively affair with family seating, a full buffet and an omelet station. Doors open at 10 am and shows begin at 10:20 am on Sunday mornings. No mention of gospel music in New Orleans would be complete without praising one of the city’s oldest and most beloved groups, the Zion Harmonizers, which perform often around town.
This ensemble was founded by Benjamin Maxon; the locally beloved Sherman Washington took over its leadership in 1942. Washington, who also coordinated the Jazz Fest’s Gospel Tent, led the group until his death on March 14, 2011. Noted for its traditional gospel quartet style and acapella singing, today’s lineup carries on the rich heritage of its originators.
Gospel music rings out of churches all over the state, while it is also at home at festivals and in clubs. Hymns like “I’ll Fly Away” are blown by brass bands on New Orleans streets and gospel classics have been recorded by world-renowned vocalist Aaron Neville on his 2010 album "I Know I’ve Been Changed." Sacred music has even entered the sports arena, as football fans cheer on their team with “When the Saints Go Marching In”— showing how influential, diverse and fascinating the world of Louisiana music can be.
Jan Ramsey is the founder and author of Offbeat Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions about Louisiana Gospel Music
What is Louisiana gospel music?
Louisiana gospel music is a Christian music tradition rooted in African American spirituals, church worship and regional musical influences like blues, jazz and R&B. It is known for expressive vocals, call-and-response singing and strong delivery.
How did gospel music develop in Louisiana?
Gospel music in Louisiana grew from church spirituals and hymns, especially within African American communities in New Orleans, Baton Rouge and surrounding areas. It evolved alongside blues and early jazz, blending sacred lyrics with powerful rhythms and harmonies that helped shape modern American music.
Who are some famous Louisiana gospel artists?
Notable Louisiana gospel figures include Irma Thomas, Mahalia Jackson, as well as groups like the Zion Harmonizers and the Zion Travelers. These artists helped bring Louisiana gospel music to national and international audiences.
Where can you experience gospel music in Louisiana today?
Gospel music can be experienced in churches across the state, at festivals like the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival’s Gospel Tent and at popular gospel brunches in New Orleans restaurants and venues. Radio stations and local choirs also keep the tradition alive year-round.
Is gospel music still popular in Louisiana today?
Yes, gospel music remains a living tradition in Louisiana, performed in churches, at cultural festivals, on radio programs and at public events.
