When it comes to gospel music, the choir is an essential component. Gospel choirs have been around for decades, and they have been responsible for some of the most impactful and inspiring songs in music history. Here is a look at some of the best gospel choirs of all time.

The Edwin Hawkins Singers

The Edwin Hawkins Singers were formed in the late 1960s by Edwin Hawkins, a pianist and music minister. The group had its breakthrough with the song "Oh Happy Day," which became a huge hit in 1969. The song, featuring the soaring vocals of Dorothy Morrison, was a mixture of gospel and pop that reached a wide audience. The Edwin Hawkins Singers went on to win four Grammys and become one of the most beloved gospel groups of all time.

The Clark Sisters

The Clark Sisters are a gospel group made up of sisters Karen Clark-Sheard, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Twinkie Clark, and Jacky Clark-Chisholm. They began singing in church as children and went on to become a powerhouse group in the gospel music world. Their harmonies and vocal prowess are legendary, and they have won three Grammy Awards and numerous other accolades. The Clark Sisters have also been a huge influence on other gospel singers, particularly in their use of contemporary sounds and styles in their music.

The Barrett Sisters

The Barrett Sisters are a gospel group made up of three sisters, Delois Barrett Campbell, Billie Barrett GreenBey, and Rodessa Barrett Porter. They began singing in the 1940s and went on to become one of the most influential and respected groups in gospel music. The Barrett Sisters' harmonies were unmatched, and their music was a blending of traditional gospel, blues, and jazz. They performed with many of the great gospel singers of their time and influenced countless others.

The Winans

The Winans are a family gospel group made up of brothers Marvin, Carvin, Ronald, and Michael. They began singing together as children and went on to become one of the most successful gospel groups of all time. The Winans are known for their smooth harmonies and crossover appeal, as their music has been popular in both the gospel and R&B worlds. They have won four Grammy Awards and have had numerous hits throughout their career.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir is a diverse group made up of hundreds of singers from various backgrounds and cultures. They are known for their powerful vocals and passionate performances, which have made them one of the most popular gospel choirs of all time. The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has won numerous awards, including six Grammy Awards, and has performed for presidents and other world leaders.

The Soweto Gospel Choir

The Soweto Gospel Choir is a South African group made up of singers from various churches in the Soweto area. They are known for their vibrant performances, which blend traditional African rhythms with gospel music. The Soweto Gospel Choir has won four Grammy Awards and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including U2 and Stevie Wonder.

The Mississippi Mass Choir

The Mississippi Mass Choir is a gospel group made up of singers from various churches in Mississippi. They are known for their powerful vocals and traditional gospel sound, which has earned them a devoted fan base. The Mississippi Mass Choir has won numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards, and has released over 20 albums.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the best gospel choirs of all time, but there are countless others who have made an impact on the genre. Gospel music has played an important role in American music history, and the choir has been at its heart. These choirs have inspired and moved audiences around the world, and their music continues to uplift and inspire today.