The music industry has witnessed a plethora of evolutions and cross-pollination in genres throughout history, and the relationship between gospel and country music is no exception. The two genres have a long and intertwined past, with many stars blurring the lines between the spiritual and secular worlds of music. The seamless blending of these genres has created a unique cultural impact, uniting people through song.
Rooted in the early 20th century, gospel music emerged from the African American church, while country music evolved from the Appalachian folk traditions of the white working class. Despite their different origins, both genres share a core of powerful storytelling, emotional expression, and a sense of community. It’s no surprise that they have become intertwined over the years.
The journey of gospel music into country music’s territory began in the 1950s and 1960s, when artists like the Louvin Brothers and the Stanley Brothers brought gospel themes to country audiences. Their harmonies and heartfelt messages resonated with fans and helped bridge the gap between the genres.
Elvis Presley, dubbed the “King of Rock and Roll,” was one of the first major stars to popularize the crossover between gospel and country. He grew up singing in church and never lost his love for gospel music, even as he became a global phenomenon. Throughout his career, Presley released numerous gospel albums, including the Grammy Award-winning “How Great Thou Art” (1967).
Contemporary country artists continue to draw inspiration from gospel music. Carrie Underwood, for example, has incorporated gospel elements into her music, most notably in her powerful rendition of “How Great Thou Art” at the 2011 ACM Girls’ Night Out event. Additionally, her 2021 album, “My Savior,” is a collection of hymns and gospel tunes that showcased her powerful vocals and commitment to her faith.
Another notable crossover artist is Dolly Parton, who grew up singing gospel music in her Tennessee church. Throughout her career, Parton has recorded several gospel albums and has been known to incorporate spiritual themes into her mainstream country hits. In 2020, she released “A Holly Dolly Christmas,” which included a mix of secular and religious holiday songs.
One of the most recent examples of the gospel-country connection is country star Chris Stapleton. A Kentucky native, Stapleton has often highlighted his gospel influences in his music. His 2020 album, “Starting Over,” featured a gospel-tinged song called “Watch You Burn,” which showcased Stapleton’s powerful vocals and emotional storytelling.
Perhaps the most successful country gospel recording artists are those who have made a significant impact on both genres, demonstrating their ability to touch the hearts of fans through their powerful music.
Johnny Cash recorded multiple gospel albums during his career, with his distinctive voice bringing a raw authenticity to spiritual themes. Cash’s album, “My Mother’s Hymn Book” (2004), is a collection of traditional gospel songs that he grew up singing.
Known for his deep baritone voice, Randy Travis has released several gospel albums throughout his career. His 2000 album, “Inspirational Journey,” won a Grammy Award for Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel Album.
A prominent country music singer and songwriter, Alan Jackson has also made a significant impact in the gospel genre. His 2006 album, “Precious Memories,” is a collection of hymns that became a commercial success and was later followed by “Precious Memories Volume II” in 2013.
Country legend Reba McEntire ventured into gospel music with her 2017 album, “Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope.” The double-disc album features traditional hymns and original songs that highlight McEntire’s strong faith.
These crossover artists exemplify how gospel and country music have historically melded together, creating a musical landscape that speaks to the soul. Their music continues to inspire and unite fans, showcasing the timeless connection between gospel and country music. Through heartfelt lyrics and emotive melodies, the power of gospel music continues to inspire and uplift, proving that the relationship between these two genres is far from over. In fact, it seems that the harmonious connection between gospel and country music will continue to flourish for years to come.
A sample of the most beloved country gospel songs…
Country gospel songs often combine the storytelling and emotive elements of country music with the powerful themes of faith, hope, and spirituality found in gospel music. While there are countless country gospel songs that have touched the hearts of listeners, here are some of the best-known and most beloved:
“Will the Circle Be Unbroken” originally a hymn written in 1907 by Ada R. Habershon that was later adapted by the legendary Carter Family in 1935, became a foundational song in the country gospel genre.
“I Saw the Light” is a classic tune written and recorded by Hank Williams in 1948. The uplifting and joyful lyrics have made it a favorite in both country and gospel circles.
“Go Rest High on That Mountain,” a poignant and heartfelt tribute to singer-songwriter Vince Gill’s late brother, has become a staple at funerals and memorial services and is loved for its powerful message of faith.
“How Great Thou Art” was originally a Swedish hymn, but has been covered by numerous artists. Elvis Presley’s Grammy Award-winning rendition remains one of the most famous.
While not exclusively a country gospel song, “Amazing Grace” has been recorded by countless country artists, including Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn and Alan Jackson, making it a beloved standard in the genre.
Alan Jackson’s rendition of “Precious Memories” has become a cherished addition to the country gospel repertoire.
“Three Wooden Crosses” is an emotion-evoking story of faith and redemption that won the Country Music Association’s Song of the Year in 2003 and remains one of Randy Travis’s most memorable hits.
“Why Me, Lord?” is a heartfelt ballad that was written and recorded by Kris Kristofferson in 1972 reflecting his personal faith journey and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
The moving song, “I Believe,” about faith and hope in the face of loss showcases Reba McEntire’s powerful vocals and her commitment to her spiritual beliefs.
Carrie Underwood’s contemporary country gospel hit, “Something in the Water,” explores themes of redemption and transformation, highlighting Underwood’s ability to seamlessly blend genres.
Article by Claudia Johnson