Michelle Obama recently stressed the importance of gospel music in American history. Speaking to a group of 100 students and musicians at the White House, Obama said that gospel music helped to shape American society; the genre of music also helps her feel connected to God.
"Gospel music has really played such an important role in our country's history," she said. "From the spirituals sung by slaves, to the anthems that became the soundtrack of the civil rights movement, and to the hymns that millions of Americans sing every single day in churches all across the country."
The First Lady then explained her personal connection to the genre of music.
"Gospel music is what fuels my love of music in general. I know that for so many folks across the country and around the world, there's nothing like hearing a choir sing an old gospel classic. When you hear that music, it gets your feet tapping and your heart pumping. It gets you ready and prepared to take in that sermon for the day. It is what helps connect us to God, to that higher power, and for so many when times are dark and when you struggle, gospel music is that ray of hope and it gives you that strength,” she said.
Charisma News reports that the event was held in promotion of “In Performance at the White House,” a concert that will air on PBS June 26.
Publication date: April 16, 2015
