Gospel singers of the world. Masterpieces of gospel music, recommended popular songs.

God is standing byJohnnie Taylor

Johnnie Taylor- God is standing by

For those who want to listen to funky gospel music, I recommend “God Is Standing By.” It starts at a relaxed, soul-like tempo, but shifts to a faster pace in the latter half.

George Nooks, the vocalist, has a wonderfully deep, rugged tone that fits this kind of funky gospel perfectly.

His songs are rich with reggae elements, so if you like reggae, definitely give him a listen!

Morning Has BrokenCat Stevens

Cat Stevens – Morning Has Broken

Morning Has Broken is a hymn written in 1931 by British children’s author Eleanor Farjeon.

The version sung by Cat Stevens is very famous.

It sounds like ordinary pop music, but here and there it features phrases that evoke Black music.

Released in 1971, it is a piece of gospel music known in Japan under the title “Ame ni Nureta Asa” (A Morning Wet with Rain).

A Message for the SaintsDonald Lawrence & The Tri-City Singers

Donald Lawrence & the Tri-City Singers – A Message For The Saints

This track, “A Message for the Saints,” stands out with its reggae-like sound.

The laid-back rap is particularly striking.

From the choir—one of gospel music’s highlights—to the rap, and the solo parts featuring riffs and powerful shouts, it’s a work that brings out the best in everything.

It’s also a rare piece where you can savor Donald Lawrence’s gritty shouts.

By the way, he’s famously smart—he even holds a bachelor’s degree.

Heaven really did give him two gifts, didn’t it? (laughs)

In the SanctuaryKurt Carr

Kurt Carr – We Lift Our Hands In The Sanctuary

Kurt Carr’s contemporary gospel song “In the Sanctuary,” released in 2001, is a bright, full-on American-style gospel track.

It’s a hymn themed around the sanctuary that appears in the Old Testament.

Although it’s relatively new among well-known gospel songs, it has already become a standard recognized around the world.

With its rich, dynamic structure, it’s a truly enjoyable listen!

A Change Is Gonna ComeSam Cooke

Sam Cooke – A Change Is Gonna Come (Official Lyric Video)

Sam Cooke, a quintessential soul music artist, is known for his classic A Change Is Gonna Come.

The defining feature of his singing is how closely he leans into and supports the listener.

Like Nat King Cole, he prioritizes accessibility and expressiveness, so the emotion of his songs comes through powerfully.

A Change Is Gonna Come is indispensable when discussing the Civil Rights Movement; although it wasn’t a commercial hit, it later came to be regarded as his greatest masterpiece.

He’s an on time GodDottie Peoples

Dottie Peoples – He’s an on time God

Dottie Peoples, a gospel singer who represents America, is known for her song “He’s an On Time God.” Among the many gospel singers, she is one of the most famous, so I think many people in Japan are familiar with her as well.

Released in 1998, “He’s an On Time God” has become a staple of gospel music.

In this song, you can experience her powerful vocals and electrifying shouts.

Be sure to check it out!

We Lift Our Hands In The SanctuaryKurt Carr

Kurt Carr – We Lift Our Hands In The Sanctuary

Kurt Carr, an American artist who captivates audiences with stirring, powerful harmonies and a warm, soulful voice.

Featured on his live album “Awesome Wonder,” this piece explores the theme of praise in the sanctuary, expressing a humble spirit of prayer on a grand scale.

Blending traditional gospel with elements of R&B, jazz, and soul, his distinctive style offers an inviting familiarity that feels as if it speaks directly to the listener’s heart.

Recorded in September 2000 at Faithful Central Bible Church in Inglewood, California, the track was also included on the gospel compilation “WOW Gospel 2003,” earning broad acclaim across diverse audiences.

With simple lyrics and a memorable melody, it’s a perfect song for those just beginning to explore gospel music.