Mahalia Jackson is one of the most influential gospel singers of all time. Her powerful voice and soulful delivery helped to define the genre and inspire generations of musicians. Born in New Orleans in 1911, Jackson began singing in her church choir at a young age and quickly gained a reputation as a talented vocalist. She went on to become a household name, performing for presidents and at the March on Washington alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Throughout her career, Jackson recorded hundreds of songs, many of which have become classics in their own right.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the 10 best Mahalia Jackson songs of all time. From her early recordings with the Decca label to her later work with Columbia Records, we’ll be exploring the highlights of her career and showcasing some of her most memorable performances. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to her music, this list is sure to provide a glimpse into the artistry and legacy of one of the greatest voices of the 20th century.
1. I Will Move On Up a Little Higher
“I Will Move On Up a Little Higher” is a gospel classic that was originally recorded by Mahalia Jackson in 1948. The song’s powerful lyrics, which speak of hope and perseverance, are delivered with Jackson’s signature vocal style, characterized by soaring highs and soulful lows. The arrangement features a lively rhythm section and a rousing choir that provides the perfect complement to Jackson’s vocals. The song’s message of overcoming adversity and striving for a better future has resonated with audiences for over 70 years and continues to inspire listeners today. It is a testament to the enduring power of Mahalia Jackson’s music and her impact on the world of gospel and beyond.
2. Nobody Knows The Trouble I Have Seen
“Nobody Knows the Trouble I Have Seen” is a traditional African American spiritual that has been recorded by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson. The song’s lyrics reflect the struggles and hardships faced by African Americans throughout history, particularly during the era of slavery and Jim Crow segregation. Jackson’s rendition of the song is a powerful and moving tribute to the resilience and faith of those who have faced oppression and adversity. Her soulful, emotive vocals are accompanied by a simple piano accompaniment that highlights the song’s raw emotional power. “Nobody Knows the Trouble I Have Seen” is a haunting and poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the African American experience.
3. What A Friend We Have In Jesus
“What a Friend We Have in Jesus” is a beloved Christian hymn that has been a staple in churches and religious communities around the world. Mahalia Jackson’s rendition of the song is a soulful and heartfelt interpretation that showcases her powerful vocals and deep faith. The song’s simple, yet profound lyrics speak of the comfort and solace that can be found in prayer and faith, even in times of trouble and uncertainty. Jackson’s performance is accompanied by a gentle piano and a choir that provides a harmonious backdrop to her soaring vocals. “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” is a timeless hymn that continues to inspire and uplift listeners with its message of hope and faith.
4. Come On Children, Let’s Sing
“Come On Children, Let’s Sing” is a lively and upbeat gospel song that was recorded by Mahalia Jackson in 1956. The song’s catchy melody and infectious rhythm make it a favorite among gospel music fans, and Jackson’s powerful vocals and joyful delivery are a testament to her artistry and passion. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to join in song and praise, and the call-and-response structure of the chorus makes it easy for audiences to participate. “Come On Children, Let’s Sing” is a testament to the joy and energy of gospel music and the power of music to bring people together in celebration and praise. It is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
5. There Is A Balm In Gilead
“There Is a Balm in Gilead” is a traditional African American spiritual that has been recorded by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson. The song’s lyrics offer a message of hope and healing, drawing on imagery from the Bible and the African American spiritual tradition. Jackson’s rendition of the song is a moving and powerful interpretation that showcases her soulful and emotive vocals. The song’s slow and mournful tempo underscores the sorrow and pain of the lyrics, while the gentle accompaniment of the piano and choir provides a sense of comfort and solace. “There Is a Balm in Gilead” is a poignant and beautiful reminder of the healing power of faith and the enduring legacy of the African American spiritual tradition.
6. How I Got Over
“How I Got Over” is a gospel classic that was originally written by Clara Ward and has been performed by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson. The song’s lyrics speak of overcoming trials and tribulations through faith and perseverance, and its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it a favorite among gospel music fans. Jackson’s rendition of the song is a powerful and emotive interpretation that showcases her signature vocal style and her deep faith. The song’s driving rhythm and lively choir provide the perfect complement to Jackson’s soaring vocals, creating a joyful and uplifting atmosphere. “How I Got Over” is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, and a reminder that with faith and perseverance, anything is possible.
7. Trouble Of The World
“Trouble of the World” is a gospel classic that has been recorded by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson. The song’s lyrics reflect on the struggles and hardships faced by people all around the world, and the powerful impact that these struggles can have on our lives. Jackson’s rendition of the song is a soulful and emotional interpretation that showcases her powerful vocals and deep faith. The song’s simple yet haunting melody and sparse accompaniment of piano and choir create a somber and reflective atmosphere that underscores the gravity of the lyrics. “Trouble of the World” is a poignant and powerful reminder of the challenges that we all face in life, and the need for faith and community to help us through difficult times. It is a testament to the enduring power of Mahalia Jackson’s music and her impact on the world of gospel and beyond.
8. Walk In Jerusalem
“Walk in Jerusalem” is a classic gospel song that has been performed by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson. The song’s lyrics speak of the joy and celebration that comes with walking in the city of God, and its upbeat tempo and lively rhythm make it a favorite among gospel music fans. Jackson’s rendition of the song is a powerful and joyful interpretation that showcases her soulful vocals and infectious energy. The song’s driving rhythm and lively choir provide the perfect complement to Jackson’s soaring vocals, creating a joyful and uplifting atmosphere. “Walk in Jerusalem” is a testament to the power of faith and community, and a reminder of the joy and celebration that can be found in the gospel music tradition. It is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
9. In The Upper Room
“In the Upper Room” is a gospel classic that has been performed by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson. The song’s lyrics speak of the transformative power of prayer and the promise of salvation through faith. Jackson’s rendition of the song is a soulful and emotive interpretation that showcases her powerful vocals and deep faith. The song’s slow and mournful tempo underscores the solemnity and reverence of the lyrics, while the gentle accompaniment of the piano and choir provides a sense of comfort and solace. “In the Upper Room” is a poignant and beautiful reminder of the power of faith and the enduring legacy of the gospel music tradition. It is a testament to the enduring power of Mahalia Jackson’s music and her impact on the world of gospel and beyond.
10. Didn’t It Rain
“Didn’t It Rain” is a gospel classic that has been recorded by many artists over the years, including Mahalia Jackson. The song’s lyrics speak of the joy and celebration that comes with the blessings of God, and its upbeat tempo and lively rhythm make it a favorite among gospel music fans. Jackson’s rendition of the song is a powerful and joyful interpretation that showcases her soulful vocals and infectious energy. The song’s driving rhythm and lively choir provide the perfect complement to Jackson’s soaring vocals, creating a joyful and uplifting atmosphere. “Didn’t It Rain” is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring legacy of the gospel music tradition. It is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
