PBS Announces New Gospel Music Docuseries Hosted by Henry Louis Gates Jr.

PBS is ready to get viewers shouting hallelujah with an upcoming four-part documentary series all about the evolution and impact of gospel music.

Premiering in February 2024, the new series titled simply GOSPEL will be hosted and executive produced by acclaimed scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr. It promises an in-depth look at how gospel music developed into a pillar of African American culture and a global artistic force.

Tracing Gospel’s Roots and Reach

Through interviews and performances, Gates will connect with gospel greats like Dionne Warwick to explore the genre’s origins and influence. Viewers can expect to learn how gospel blended African spirituals with blues rhythms during the Great Migration, eventually resonating far beyond church walls.

GOSPEL will examine how gospel provided solace and strength through centuries of oppression, while also rejoicing in faith and endurance. Plus, it will highlight how gospel paved the way for modern R&B, soul and hip-hop.

All-Star Gospel Celebration Coming to PBS

Leading up to the series premiere, PBS will air an exclusive gospel concert special on February 9 hosted by Gates. It promises stellar performances from top gospel acts plus special guest stars from the pop and R&B world.

Names are still to be announced, but this concert seeks to showcase gospel’s amazing reach across musical genres. Filmed live with an audience in LA, it will capture the exhilarating communal spirit of gospel music old and new.

From The Black Church to GOSPEL

GOSPEL reunites Gates with production team members from his recent PBS series The Black Church. That Emmy-nominated docuseries also illuminated key aspects of African American spiritual life.

Gates has cemented his reputation as a preeminent documentarian through projects like Finding Your Roots, Making Black America, and many other acclaimed PBS programs. GOSPEL continues his goal of fostering greater cultural understanding through illuminating overlooked chapters of history.

Uplifting Viewing for Challenging Times

The producers say gospel’s message of perseverance and praise is sorely needed today. GOSPEL will highlight a unifying artform that transcends divisions.