Mahalia Jackson (1911–72,) born Mahala Jackson, was an American gospel singer, known as the Queen of Gospel and one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. Her powerful contralto and deep spiritual conviction shaped gospel music, inspiring generations.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Jackson was raised in a strict religious household, fostering her love for gospel music. She moved to Chicago as a teenager, joining the Greater Salem Baptist Church choir, where her voice quickly gained recognition. In 1934, she recorded God Gonna Separate the Wheat from the Tares, but Move On Up a Little Higher (1947) propelled her to national fame, selling over two million copies.
Jackson performed at Carnegie Hall, the Newport Jazz Festival, and for U.S. presidents, including John F. Kennedy’s inaugural ball (1961.) A committed civil rights activist, she sang at the March on Washington (1963) and supported Martin Luther King, Jr.
Her publications include Mahalia Jackson: Movin’ On Up (1976,) her autobiography, and Montrew Dunham’s Mahalia Jackson: Gospel Singer and Civil Rights Champion (2003,) which examines her impact on music and activism.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Mahalia Jackson
It’s easy to be independent when you’ve got money. But to be independent when you haven’t got a thing—that’s the Lord’s test.
—Mahalia Jackson
Topics: Independence
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