Gospel singers of the world. Masterpieces of gospel music, recommended popular songs.
A roundup of classic gospel hits and recommended artists!
We’ve picked a wide range—from staple gospel music to slightly lesser-known tracks.
Gospel was born from a blend of Black music and classical music.
Its history is relatively young, said to be a genre that gradually took shape around the time the United States was founded.
This time, we’re highlighting the allure of gospel along with timeless songs and artists.
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Gospel singers of the world. Classic and recommended popular gospel songs (31–40)
I Need You NowSmokie Norful
A heart-stirring prayer song by American gospel singer Smokie Norful, known for his overwhelming vocal power and soulful expressiveness.
Its melody line, filled with earnest pleading, and the carefully spun tones of the piano sink deep into the heart.
Included on the album “I Need You Now,” released in May 2002, this piece is a profound form of prayer born from his own experiences.
It resonated beyond the gospel world, reaching No.
96 on the Billboard Hot 100, and was covered by Sharon Leal in the 2014 film “Freedom.” With its simple yet powerful message and approachable melody, it’s also recommended as an introductory song for those new to gospel.
Open My HeartYolanda Adams
A gospel classic that begins with a gentle piano accompaniment and a warm, heartfelt vocal that resonates deeply.
It’s a track from Yolanda Adams, a leading figure in American gospel, taken from her album “Mountain High.
.
.
Valley Low,” released in September 1999.
The vocals, imbued with a profound sense of prayer, blend beautifully with the string arrangement, resulting in a gem of a ballad that fuses the charms of gospel and R&B.
This piece reached No.
10 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop chart and stands out as a signature track from the Grammy-winning album.
Often performed in solemn settings such as churches and weddings, it’s a highly recommended song for those seeking peace of mind through gospel music.
Again I Say RejoiceIsrael & New Breed
This is a classic by the American gospel group Israel & New Breed, known for its powerful chorus and uplifting rhythms.
Created by group leader Israel Houghton and Aaron Lindsey, the song weaves together elements of funk, R&B, and jazz to express praise filled with joy and faith.
It was included on the 2004 album “Live From Another Level” and won Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song of the Year at the 36th GMA Dove Awards in 2005.
With the driving energy of its horn section and drums, and a simple, approachable melody line, it’s perfect for anyone looking to try gospel choir singing.
JirehMaverick City
A heartwarming song by the American gospel group Maverick City that begins with gentle piano tones and gradually expands into a grand harmony.
Centered on the themes of God’s love and provision, the pure, transparent vocals of Chandler Moore and Naomi Raine blend together to evoke deep emotion.
Included on the album “Old Church Basement,” released in April 2021, it reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
Hot Gospel Songs chart.
It also received high acclaim, including a nomination for Worship Recorded Song of the Year at the GMA Dove Awards that same year.
This track is recommended for anyone seeking healing for the soul or wanting to experience the appeal of gospel music.
Its simple melody and resonant harmonies make it easy and inviting for anyone to hum along.
Old Ship of ZionBrother Joe May
A classic by Brother Joe May, known as “Thunderbolt,” who hailed from the American Midwest.
Joe learned to sing from Willie Mae Smith, a pioneer of gospel music.
A live version of this song was included on a memorial album released after his death.
Gospel singers of the world. Classic gospel music masterpieces, recommended popular songs (41–50)
Like a deerDonnie McClurkin
Donnie McClurkin is a pastor in New York and also one of the most famous musicians in contemporary gospel.
This song was composed by Martin Nystrom in 1981.
It is a piece of contemporary worship music with a pop-like style.
ONAGA (It’s Working)JJ Hairston feat. Tim Godfrey
A thrilling fusion of African gospel and American gospel by America’s J.
J.
Hairston and Nigeria’s Tim Godfrey.
Featured on Youthful Praise’s 2019 album “Miracle Worker,” this piece stands out for its powerful vocals praising God, interweaving messages in Nigeria’s Igbo language.
Its vibrant melody blends traditional African rhythmic patterns with contemporary arrangements, making it a fun and approachable song even for those new to singing gospel.
The simple, accessible structure brings out the full appeal of gospel music.