Black History Month, Part 3: Gospel Music

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Gospel music, in the simplest explanation, is the outward expression of what the soul feels inside.

With a history deeply weaved in the African American tradition, Black Gospel music got its start from the oral traditions of the past.

Over the years it evolved into a staple of black culture.

"The good news is John 3:16. That God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son. The gospel of Jesus Christ. That's the good news using the vehicle of music to deliver that message," said Dazz Edwards, musician.

A message you'll find Sunday mornings in churches across Greater Lafayette.

Dazz Edwards serves as minister of music at Second Baptist Church, where you'll see different expressions of worship.

"Clapping, dancing, all of that lines up with the word of God. The bible says David danced. You clap! it's part of getting into the gospel music. Getting into music period. Music has a tendency of moving you," he added.

"It's not a formality, just something you do. 'Oh the music feels good.' No! you do that because you mean it."

For the black church, Gospel represents a rich history where physical and vocal expressions of feelings, transform the Sunday worship service into a life-changing experience.

 "I don't understand how you can sit there and not do it. When you think about how good God has been, the doors He's opened. When you wake up every morning, there's new mercies and new grace that God has provided for you, who would not do that?" commented Edwards.