By Dewayne Benton
My love for jazz started as a kid when my father would play music throughout the house. The sounds of Grover Washington Jr., Al Jarreau, and other jazz influences filled our home, creating a warm and soulful atmosphere. These early experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the genre, its rich harmonies, and its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions.
It wasn’t until I was introduced to the late Daryl Coley that I got my first taste of Gospel music with that jazz flair. Daryl’s music was like watching a school teacher giving the class instruction while teaching at the bulletin board. It was both educational and deeply moving. I believe his style was a carryover from other legends in gospel, such as Andrae Crouch and Thomas Whitfield, who had already begun to blend the two genres in innovative ways.
The Genesis of Gospel Jazz
Today, I still enjoy the amazing sounds of this newly created genre, which has been shaped by some of today’s most influential artists. Among them, Ben Tankard and Kirk Whalum stand out as the creators or founders of Gospel Jazz. Ben Tankard, notably considered the Godfather of Gospel Jazz, has been instrumental in bringing this unique blend of music to the forefront.
The Power of Gospel Jazz
What mesmerizes me about Gospel Jazz is the way it combines the clear message of the gospel with the rich, improvisational nature of jazz. It’s a genre that speaks to the soul, offering both spiritual uplift and musical sophistication. Artists like Ben Tankard, Kirk Whalum, and Kim Burrell have mastered the art of blending these two worlds, creating music that is both deeply moving and incredibly beautiful.
My First Jazz Show on Hallelujah FM
Back in 2010, I had the opportunity to host my first jazz show on Hallelujah FM. It was a pivotal moment for me, as it allowed me to share my love for this genre with a wider audience. The show was a mix of traditional jazz and Gospel Jazz, and it was incredibly well-received. Listeners were captivated by the unique blend of sounds and the powerful messages conveyed through the music.
Gospel Jazz Radio
Inspired by that experience, I recently created an Internet Radio station called Gospel Jazz Radio. You can tune in at www.gospeljazzradio.online to enjoy non-stop Gospel Jazz. The station features a diverse array of artists, including Yolanda Adams, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Angella Christie, and Lalah Hathaway. Each artist brings their own unique style and perspective to the genre, making it a rich and dynamic listening experience.
The Impact of Gospel Jazz
Gospel Jazz has the power to heal and inspire. It speaks to the heart in a way that few other genres can. The improvisational nature of jazz allows for a deep emotional connection, while the gospel message provides a sense of hope and purpose. For me, listening to Gospel Jazz is like being in a sanctuary, where the music lifts my spirits and reminds me of the love and grace of God.
Conclusion
My love for Gospel Jazz is rooted in the deep musical traditions of both genres. It is a genre that has the power to transform lives, to bring people together, and to heal broken hearts. As I continue to run Gospel Jazz Radio, my hope is to share this beautiful music with as many people as possible, to help them find the same peace and joy that it has brought to my life.
So, whether you’re a long-time fan of Gospel or a jazz enthusiast, I invite you to explore the world of Gospel Jazz. Let the music speak to your soul and bring you closer to the divine. Tune in to www.gospeljazzradio.online and experience the magic for yourself.