The Best of Black Gospel: Joy to the World Tour

This December, Augsburg welcomes the "Joy to the World" tour, a celebration of Black gospel music that traces its roots from the spirituals of enslaved Africans to the modern praise break. Audiences can expect a powerful evening of call-and-response, polyrhythmic clapping, and soaring harmonies that have defined the genre for centuries.

The concert draws on the rich tradition of the Historic Black Church, where hand-clapping and foot-stomping replaced banned drums, and where the ring shout evolved into ecstatic dancing. The program likely includes classics from the Thomas Dorsey era, such as "Take My Hand, Precious Lord," alongside contemporary gospel anthems that continue to inspire unity and faith.

Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the genre, this tour offers an immersive experience into the music that served as the "soundtrack of the struggle for civil rights." It is a rare opportunity to witness the communal energy and spiritual depth that have made Black gospel a cornerstone of American culture.