20 Famous Gospel Singers

Gospel music is a genre deeply rooted in African-American culture and has played a significant role in shaping the history of American music. The origins of gospel music date back to the early 20th century, where it was predominantly sung in churches and community gatherings. Over the years, gospel music has evolved, and today, it encompasses a wide range of musical styles, including traditional gospel, contemporary gospel, and gospel jazz. The lyrics of gospel songs typically revolve around Christian themes such as faith, redemption, and salvation.

Throughout history, many artists have made a significant impact on the gospel music scene, inspiring generations of musicians and fans alike. These individuals have not only been successful in the gospel music industry, but they have also crossed over into other genres and achieved mainstream success. Some of the most famous gospel singers have used their platform to spread messages of hope and positivity, becoming icons in their own right.

In this article, we will take a closer look at 20 of the most famous gospel singers in history. From the soulful sounds of Mahalia Jackson to the contemporary stylings of Kirk Franklin, we will explore the careers of these iconic artists and the impact they have had on gospel music and beyond. Through their music, these singers have touched the hearts and souls of countless people around the world and left an indelible mark on the music industry as a whole.

1. Mahalia Jackson

Mahalia Jackson was a renowned American gospel singer, known for her powerful and soulful voice. Born in New Orleans in 1911, Jackson began singing in church at a young age and went on to become one of the most celebrated gospel artists of all time. She toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe, captivating audiences with her stirring renditions of spirituals and hymns. Jackson’s music was not only a source of inspiration and comfort for many, but it also played an important role in the civil rights movement, with her performance of “I’ve Been ‘Buked and I’ve Been Scorned” at the 1963 March on Washington being particularly memorable. Despite passing away in 1972, Mahalia Jackson’s music continues to touch and uplift audiences around the world.

2. Andraé Crouch

Andraé Crouch was a legendary American gospel singer, songwriter, and music producer. Born in San Francisco in 1942, Crouch began his music career at a young age, singing and playing piano in his father’s church. He later went on to form his own gospel group, The Disciples, and became known for his innovative and dynamic style of gospel music, blending traditional gospel with elements of soul, pop, and R&B. Crouch’s music was not only popular within the gospel community but also crossed over to the mainstream music scene, earning him numerous accolades and collaborations with artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Quincy Jones. Crouch passed away in 2015, but his music continues to inspire and influence generations of gospel and secular musicians alike.

3. BeBe And CeCe Winans

BeBe and CeCe Winans are a brother and sister gospel duo from Detroit, Michigan. Born into a musical family, the two began singing together at a young age and went on to become one of the most successful gospel duos of all time. Their music, which blends traditional gospel with contemporary R&B and pop, has earned them numerous awards and accolades, including five Grammy Awards. The duo has also collaborated with a number of secular artists, such as Whitney Houston and Kenny G, helping to bring gospel music to a wider audience. Despite taking breaks to pursue solo careers, BeBe and CeCe Winans continue to perform and record music together, inspiring fans with their uplifting messages and soulful harmonies.

4. James Cleveland

James Cleveland was an American gospel singer, pianist, and composer known as the “King of Gospel Music.” Born in Chicago in 1931, Cleveland began singing in church at a young age and went on to become a major figure in the gospel music industry. He founded the Southern California Community Choir and worked with numerous gospel artists, including Aretha Franklin and Mahalia Jackson. Cleveland’s music blended traditional gospel with elements of soul, R&B, and jazz, and he was known for his powerful and emotive voice. Despite his passing in 1991, James Cleveland’s influence on gospel music continues to be felt, and he is remembered as one of the greatest gospel singers of all time.

5. Marvin Sapp

Marvin Sapp is an American gospel singer, songwriter, and pastor from Grand Rapids, Michigan. He began his music career as a member of the group Commissioned before launching a successful solo career in the late 1990s. Sapp’s music is known for its uplifting messages of faith and hope, and his powerful and soulful voice has earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy and Stellar Awards. In addition to his music career, Sapp is also a pastor and author, using his platform to inspire and uplift others both through his music and his ministry. His music continues to touch and inspire listeners around the world.

6. Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash was an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his contributions to various genres of music, including country, rock and roll, and gospel. Although he was primarily known for his work in country music, Cash’s gospel music was also highly regarded and earned him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He recorded several gospel albums, including the critically acclaimed “My Mother’s Hymn Book.” Cash’s music often featured themes of redemption, faith, and Christian morality, and his raw, emotive vocal style lent a sense of authenticity and sincerity to his performances.

7. Marvin Winans

Marvin Winans is an American gospel singer and pastor from Detroit, Michigan. He is perhaps best known as a member of the Winans family, one of the most renowned families in gospel music history. Winans has also had a successful solo career, releasing numerous albums and earning multiple Grammy Awards. He is known for his soulful, emotive vocal style and his ability to infuse traditional gospel with elements of R&B and soul. In addition to his music career, Winans is also a pastor and a prominent figure in the gospel community, using his platform to inspire and uplift others.

8. Israel Houghton

Israel Houghton is an American gospel singer, songwriter, and producer. He is known for his contemporary gospel music that blends various genres such as rock, pop, and Latin. He has won numerous Grammy Awards for his work, including Best Traditional Gospel Album for “Alive In South Africa” and Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album for “A Deeper Level.” His music often features themes of worship, faith, and personal growth, and his performances are known for their high-energy and passionate delivery.

9. The Clark Sisters

The Clark Sisters are an American gospel group composed of four sisters: Denise, Twinkie, Dorinda, and Karen Clark. They are regarded as one of the most influential and successful gospel groups in history. Their music is characterized by intricate harmonies, powerful vocals, and soulful arrangements. The Clark Sisters have won multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Gospel Performance for their hit song “You Brought The Sunshine.” They continue to inspire and uplift listeners with their music, which often focuses on themes of love, faith, and perseverance. Their impact on gospel music continues to be felt to this day.

10. Chandler Moore

Chandler Moore is a contemporary gospel artist known for his dynamic vocal range and powerful performances. He is a member of the Maverick City Music collective and has collaborated with artists like Chris Tomlin, Elevation Worship, and Kari Jobe. Moore’s music combines elements of gospel, R&B, and hip-hop, and his lyrics are known for their message of hope, faith, and perseverance. His live performances are energetic and soulful, showcasing his talent as a vocalist and musician. With his unique sound and passion for spreading the gospel through music, Chandler Moore is quickly becoming one of the most influential voices in contemporary Christian music.

11. Shirley Caesar

Shirley Caesar is a gospel music legend known for her soulful voice and powerful performances. With over 60 years in the music industry, Caesar has released dozens of albums and won multiple Grammy Awards. She is often referred to as the “Queen of Gospel Music” and has inspired generations of artists with her music and ministry. Caesar’s music combines traditional gospel elements with contemporary sounds, and her lyrics often focus on themes of faith, love, and social justice. Her live performances are electrifying, with Caesar’s dynamic vocals and stage presence captivating audiences around the world. With her enduring talent and unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel, Shirley Caesar is a true icon of gospel music.

12. Gary Davis

Gary Davis, also known as Reverend Gary Davis, was a gospel blues musician and a master of the Piedmont fingerstyle guitar. He was born in 1896 and spent most of his life in the United States. Davis was blind since childhood but it didn’t stop him from becoming a prolific musician and influential figure in American music. He was known for his virtuosic guitar playing and soulful vocals, and his music blended elements of blues, gospel, and folk. Davis’ lyrics often focused on themes of faith, redemption, and social justice. His influence can be heard in the music of countless musicians who have been inspired by his talent and his legacy.

13. Mary Mary

Mary Mary is a contemporary gospel duo made up of sisters Erica and Tina Campbell. Their music combines elements of gospel, R&B, and hip-hop, and their lyrics often focus on themes of faith, empowerment, and self-love. They have released multiple albums and won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards. Mary Mary’s music has been praised for its innovative sound and its ability to connect with listeners from all walks of life. Their live performances are energetic and uplifting, with the sisters’ powerful vocals and stage presence leaving audiences inspired and moved. Mary Mary has become one of the most successful and influential gospel acts of the 21st century.

14. Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin was an American gospel and soul singer widely regarded as the Queen of Soul. She had an unparalleled vocal range and power that made her an icon in the music industry. Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1942, Franklin began her career singing in her father’s church choir. She went on to achieve great commercial success with hits like “Respect” and “Chain of Fools.” Franklin’s music and style were deeply influenced by her gospel roots, and she continued to incorporate religious themes into her work throughout her career. She passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time.

15. Sister Rosetta Tharpe

Sister Rosetta Tharpe, on the other hand, was a pioneering gospel singer and guitarist who is often credited with helping to lay the foundations for rock and roll. Born in 1915 in Arkansas, Tharpe began performing as a child alongside her mother in a traveling evangelical troupe. She went on to achieve great success in the 1940s and 50s with hits like “This Train” and “Up Above My Head.” Tharpe was known for her flamboyant style and electrifying performances, which often featured her playing a guitar and singing at the same time. She passed away in 1973, but her influence can still be heard in the music of artists like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry.

16. Hank Williams

Hank Williams was an American singer and songwriter who is considered one of the most significant and influential figures in country music history. Born in Alabama in 1923, Williams began performing as a child and went on to achieve great success in the 1940s and 50s with hits like “Your Cheatin’ Heart” and “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.” While Williams was known primarily as a country artist, he also incorporated elements of gospel music into his work, drawing inspiration from his Christian faith. Williams passed away in 1953 at the age of 29, but his music continues to be celebrated and covered by artists of all genres.

17. Travis Greene

Travis Greene, on the other hand, is a contemporary gospel singer and songwriter who has become one of the leading voices in the genre. Born in Delaware in 1984, Greene began his career as a worship leader before releasing his debut album, “Stretching Out,” in 2010. He has since gone on to release several more critically acclaimed albums, including “Crossover: Live from Music City” and “Broken Record.” Known for his dynamic live performances and powerful vocals, Greene has won numerous awards and has collaborated with artists like Tye Tribbett and Anthony Brown. He continues to be a prominent figure in the gospel music world.

18. Kim Burrell

Kim Burrell is an American gospel singer and pastor known for her powerful vocals and emotional performances. Born in Texas in 1972, Burrell began singing in church at a young age and went on to become a sought-after session vocalist, working with artists like Whitney Houston and Stevie Wonder. She released her debut album, “Try Me Again,” in 1995, and has since released several more critically acclaimed albums. Burrell is also a pastor at the Love & Liberty Fellowship Church in Houston, Texas, and is known for her fiery sermons and outspoken views on social issues. She has won numerous awards for her music, including several Stellar Awards.

19. Tye Tribbett

Tye Tribbett is another prominent figure in the contemporary gospel music scene. Born in New Jersey in 1976, Tribbett began his career as a choir director before forming his own group, Tye Tribbett & G.A., in the early 2000s. He has since released several successful albums, including “Life” and “Fresh,” and has won multiple awards for his music. Known for his energetic live performances and innovative approach to gospel music, Tribbett has collaborated with artists like Donnie McClurkin and JJ Hairston. He is also a television personality, having appeared as a judge on the gospel singing competition show “Sunday Best.”

20. Jonathan McReynolds

Jonathan McReynolds is a contemporary gospel singer and songwriter from Chicago, Illinois. Born in 1989, he began playing music in church as a child and went on to study music composition at Columbia College in Chicago. McReynolds released his debut album, “Life Music,” in 2012, and has since released several more critically acclaimed albums, including “Make Room” and “People.” Known for his smooth vocals and introspective lyrics, McReynolds has become one of the leading voices in the gospel music scene. He has won numerous awards, including several Stellar Awards and a Dove Award, and has collaborated with artists like India.Arie and Mali Music.