a) Mahalia Jackson

Mahalia Jackson, often referred to as the “Queen of Gospel,” was a pivotal figure in American music history. Her powerful, emotive voice and spiritual fervor brought gospel music to a broader audience beyond the confines of African American churches. Born in 1911 in New Orleans, Jackson grew up singing in church choirs, where she developed her distinctive style. Her recording career, which began in the 1930s, reached its peak in the 1950s and 1960s, making her a national and international star. Jackson’s music was deeply rooted in her faith, and she refused to sing secular music despite its commercial appeal. Her influence extended beyond music; she was an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement, using her voice to inspire and bring hope. Mahalia Jackson’s legacy lives on, not only through her recordings but also as a symbol of the power of gospel music to transcend cultural and racial barriers.