No. 65: Mahalia Jackson
Episode Transcript
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"What do you get when you mix the soul of gospel with the spirit of change? You get Mahalia Jackson—a woman whose voice was as powerful as her convictions. Hi, I’m Shae, a PhD candidate at Harvard, and welcome to the '100 Historic Black Women You Should Know By Election Day' series, where we celebrate trailblazers who changed the course of history.
Born in 1911 in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Mahalia Jackson grew up singing in church, but her voice would soon echo far beyond the pews. Known as the Queen of Gospel, Mahalia didn’t just sing—she roared, using her voice to inspire millions and to give strength to the Civil Rights Movement. She refused to sing secular music, believing her gift was meant for a higher purpose. And that purpose? To uplift a nation that was fighting for its soul.
In the 1930s, Mahalia Jackson moved to Chicago, a city that played a pivotal role in shaping her career and her influence on gospel music. In Chicago, she joined the Greater Salem Baptist Church and quickly became a local sensation with her powerful, emotive singing style. It was here that she began recording, bringing gospel music into the mainstream. Chicago wasn’t just a stop on her journey; it was the city where Mahalia Jackson transformed gospel music, making it a national force and herself a legend.
From performing at the March on Washington in 1963 to serving as a close confidante of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mahalia Jackson was more than a singer—she was a force of nature. Her rendition of 'Precious Lord, Take My Hand' at the funeral of Dr. King brought hope to the weary and courage to the bold.
And here’s something to keep in mind—Mahalia Jackson was actually the one who nudged Dr. King during the March on Washington. She famously shouted, 'Tell them about the dream, Martin!'—a moment that changed history forever.
Mahalia Jackson’s legacy is a reminder that music can be a powerful tool for change. If her story moved you, make sure to follow and rate this podcast 5 stars so more people can hear these amazing stories. And don’t forget to follow me on social media and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more inspiring content. Together, let’s keep these voices alive."
