The World's Greatest Gospel Singer


Mahalia Jackson, gospel legend and queen of gospel, was called the most important figure in gospel music, and she graciously lived up to these titles.    Mahalia was always true to her calling and dedicated her life to using her voice as an instrument of praise. She was a gospel trail blazer and trendsetter.

Through her recordings, which sold in the millions, world tours, radio and television appearances, Mahalia became an ambassador of gospel as she spread traditional gospel music.   Between 1954 and 1955 she also had her own radio show that aired on Sunday evenings on CBS Radio.

Mahalia's contralto voice had a rich, resonant tonal quality.   Whether she was singing a powerful, slowly paced, deeply moving version of "The Lord's Prayer," "He's Got the Whole World in His Hand," or spirited renditions of such spirituals as "When the Saints Go Marching In" or "Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho," her voice soared with spirit, joy and grace as she sang reverently, magnificently and powerfully.

Mahalia was a devoted gospel singer who dedicated her life to using her gifted voice glorifying, magnifying and lifting up the name of the Lord. However, Mahalia, a soft spoken person of faith, deep conviction and commitment used her powerful voice to support and join with fellow African Americans in the civil rights struggle.

©Nokhanya