Jubilation! Listening Room Series

A Joy That Would Not Be Silenced: The Rise and Power of Gospel Music

As African Americans migrated from the rural South to cities across the nation, a new sacred sound emerged. Gospel music fused the emotional depth of the spirituals with blues harmonies, jazz rhythms, and passionate personal testimony. This Listening Room traces gospel’s evolution from storefront churches to concert halls, radio broadcasts, and international stages, revealing how gospel became both a powerful expression of faith and a catalyst for social change.

Facilitator: Jason Clayborn is a Louisville-born, award-winning gospel artist, songwriter, producer, and choir leader whose musical roots extend across generations. Beginning in the church, Clayborn developed into an internationally recognized artist, touring throughout Europe and Africa. His songwriting credits include works recorded by Hezekiah Walker, VaShawn Mitchell, Ricky Dillard, and Wess Morgan. His hit “Better” topped Billboard’s gospel chart and earned Grammy, Stellar, Soul Train, Billboard, and Dove Award recognition, including a Dove Award win. Founder of Jason Clayborn &The Atmosphere Changers, he continues to champion gospel music’s rich legacy while inspiring new generations through performance, songwriting, and ministry.