Donald M. Payne: “let me join in with my colleagues in expressing support for the designation of September 2008 for Gospel Music Heritage…”

“let me join in with my colleagues in expressing support for the designation of September 2008 for Gospel Music Heritage Month. And let me commend the sponsor, Ms. Sheila Jackson-Lee, for her initiative to make the gospel music national art form as we've seen with jazz in the past. And let me thank the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Clay) for his support of this legislation. Let me say that this resolution certainly recognizes gospel music's contribution in American culture by celebrating its rich heritage and artists for the entire month of September. It is very important that we recognize and celebrate the vital role gospel music has played in music history and also in contemporary times. Gospel music has been woven into the fabric of American history spanning generations from rock and roll, country, to blues, R&B, and even hip hop. Gospel music roots can be many musical genres, and we love that today. Not only has gospel music entertained the masses, but its spiritual roots have spread the hope to many souls around the world. As you know, the history of gospel can be traced back to the African American spirituals that blended diverse elements from traditional music, folk songs, and hymns and ultimately borrowed from other American musical styles including ragtime, jazz, and the blues. The first Negro spirituals were inspired by the hardship of slavery yet enlightened by the hope and faith of God.”