On the next American Black Journal, we’ll continue our year-long series on The Black Church in Detroit with a special look at gospel music in honor of Black Music Month.

We take a look at the origin of gospel music and how it has evolved over time to include the contemporary sounds of today. And, we’ll examine gospel’s impact in Detroit and its rich history of producing great gospel artists. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Pastor Robert Smith, Jr. of New Bethel Baptist Church, where the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin grew up singing in the choir. He talks about the church’s long connection to gospel music and how it is changing with the times.

Plus, Dr. E. LaQuint Weaver II shares his love of gospel music as the founder and director of The Hallelujah Singers, a Detroit-based community choir that has performed with music greats and won gospel music competitions. And, WMXD-92.3 FM gospel radio show host and University of Michigan-Deaborn professor, Dr. Deborah Smith Pollard traces the evolution of the gospel sound and explains why it still matters today.

Don’t miss American Black Journal on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit Public TV, WTVS-Channel 56.

Check out the extended interviews here:

Extended interview with Pastor Robert Smith, Jr. of New Bethel Baptist Church.

Extended interview with Dr. E. LaQuint Weaver II with the Hallelujah Singers.

WATCH NOW:

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Don’t miss American Black Journal on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and again on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

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