Essential gospel music listening

The albums that define gospel music.

Our picks for where to start with gospel music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The gospel music essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Bringing It All Back Home

Bob Dylan

Bringing It All Back Home

A groundbreaking fusion of folk and rock, marked by vivid storytelling and a raw, electric energy.

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Slow Train Coming

Bob Dylan

Slow Train Coming

Gospel-infused rock intertwines with Dylan's distinct storytelling, creating a profound exploration of faith and redemption.

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Witness

Katy Perry

Witness

A vibrant blend of synth-pop and dance music, layered with bold anthemic hooks and introspective lyrics.

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Smile

Katy Perry

Smile

Bright, buoyant pop anthems blend with reflective moments, showcasing resilience and personal growth through infectious melodies.

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Hymns by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash

Hymns by Johnny Cash

A poignant collection of heartfelt gospel tunes delivered with Johnny Cash's deep, resonant voice and a simple, unadorned arrangement.

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The Sound of Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash

The Sound of Johnny Cash

A rich tapestry of storytelling woven through traditional country melodies and heartfelt vocal delivery.

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Sho' Is Funky Down Here

James Brown

Sho' Is Funky Down Here

A vibrant showcase of funk grooves layered with soulful melodies and improvisational flair that defines Brown's electrifying style.

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Soul on Top

James Brown

Soul on Top

A rich blend of soul and blues, showcasing James Brown's powerful vocals over lush orchestral arrangements.

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Worship & Faith

Randy Travis

Worship & Faith

A heartfelt collection of traditional gospel songs delivered with Randy Travis's signature country warmth and soulful sincerity.

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Songs of the Season

Randy Travis

Songs of the Season

Traditional holiday melodies blend with Randy Travis's warm baritone, evoking a nostalgic spirit of Christmas joy.

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Il mondo in un secondo

Alessandra Amoroso

Il mondo in un secondo

A vibrant blend of pop and soul, showcasing powerful vocals over rich, melodic instrumentation.

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Senza nuvole

Alessandra Amoroso

Senza nuvole

A blend of heartfelt ballads and upbeat pop rhythms, showcasing the emotive power of Amoroso's vocal prowess.

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Soul Brothers

Ray Charles

Soul Brothers

A vibrant fusion of blues and soul, driven by Ray Charles' powerhouse vocals and masterful piano work.

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Soul Meeting

Ray Charles

Soul Meeting

A vibrant fusion of blues and gospel, propelled by Ray Charles' dynamic vocals and heartfelt piano melodies.

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A Brand New Me (Aretha Franklin album)

Aretha Franklin

A Brand New Me (Aretha Franklin album)

A resplendent blend of soul and gospel, showcasing Franklin's powerful vocals over lush orchestral arrangements.

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Jump to It

Aretha Franklin

Jump to It

Funky rhythms blend with Aretha's powerful vocals, creating an infectious energy that captures the essence of early '80s soul.

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