Hymn of
History by TIMOTHY LAMAR MALONE
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Music was the most important form of expression to people in bondage. Opportunity, not the desire
for fame or fortune was the objective; even through there was very little joy and much pain during what surely seemed like a hopeless existence. The slave laborer chanted as to reflect on his inner soul. This emotional release was a sacred form of communication. It was a way of informing fellow slaves, educating, and uniting their communities.
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The roots of music sprouted from the plantations, inspiring what we know as Gospel Music. This new music created by the slaves along with their religion was no less important than family, and it validated the power of God’s grace. It empowered the lowly slave, thanks to evangelicals. However, slave owners didn’t want unity in Christ, only to bring God to so-called heathens and civilization to savages. With the help of Scripture and Rhythmic improvised passages, executed in an extravagantly expressive manner, this creation came to be known as Gospel Music. The exuberant way of worship
Emerge! | winter 2012 | emergeva.com
Our Heart and Soul impacted the world without limitations.