The spiritual is celebrated in American culture and beyond. It is the source from which gospel, jazz, blues, and hip-hop evolved. It was born in the American South, created by slaves, bards whose names history never recorded. The organizing concept of this music is not the melody of Europe, but the rhythm of Africa. And the theology conveyed in these songs is a potent mix of African spirituality, Hebrew narrative, Christian doctrine, and an extreme experience of human suffering.

Joe Carter joins Speaking of Faith for conversation and song as we explore the religious sensibility of the spiritual — its hidden meanings, and the beauty, lament, and hope of this singular musical tradition.

LISTEN to the radio program.