Meet the Father of Gospel Music, Thomas Dorsey, who responded to a time of great sorrow and loss in his life by writing "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" and thus forging a new and unique style of music.  Although his rich and emotive songs were rejected by many churches at first, Dorsey's songs quickly became loved by Americans during the hardships of the

Great Depression.  "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" is still sung today.

​

Gospel Music could be described as a blend of traditional hymns and jazz.  An African American creation, Gospel Music's style would inspire other musicians, Christian and secular.  Dorsey's songs would be sung by Aretha Franklin, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and many other famous artists."