“Gospel,” a four-hour docuseries, airs on WGCU PBS and explores the rich history of Black spirituality through sermon and song. Professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr., host of “Finding Your Roots,” is executive producer, host and writer. It will premiere on WGCU PBS at 8 p.m., Monday and Tuesday.
The show looks at the history of Black religious music and preaching, showcasing the symbiotic relationship of words and songs present in any Black church.
The series examines the origin of Black gospel music, which blended the sacred spirituals with the blues tradition and soared to new heights during the Great Migration.
“Gospel” also explores the evolution of preaching styles over time, and the impact of class, gender, cultural innovations and consumer technologies that shaped the development of gospel since its conception.
Both parts of “Gospel” are available now for members on PBS Passport.