Dorsey, Thomas Andrew

1899-1993 · Contribution: 1932-1993

Gospel composer and music director

Known as 'the Father of Gospel Music' for fusing blues musical structure with sacred lyrics; co-founded the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses

Religious & Spiritual Leadership: collage image
Religious & Spiritual Leadership

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Quick facts

Born
1899, Villa Rica, Georgia
Active since
1932
Category
Religious & Spiritual Leadership
Best known for
'The Father of Gospel Music'

Impact on the world

Dorsey invented modern gospel music, taking a style established Black churches first condemned as too worldly and making it the sound of Black worship, and the soundtrack of the civil rights movement.

An alternative history

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Sources

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