Date

8-29-2025

Department

School of Music

Degree

Master of Arts in Worship Studies (MA)

Chair

Eddie A. Robinson

Keywords

African American Female Songwriters, Historical Gospel Composition Writers, Lucie Campbell Williams, Margaret P. Douroux, Roberta Martin, Dorothy Love Coates, Doris Akers, Sandra Crouch

Disciplines

Music

Abstract

The worship community has been profoundly shaped by the contributions of numerous songwriters, many of whom remain largely unknown despite the widespread impact of their music. While enjoyed by the congregation, songs performed during corporate worship services are very rarely credited to/known by the songwriter(s). Songs heard on the radio are known by and often credited to the artist and not the songwriter. This research study, “Celebrating Their Voices: The Recognition of African American Female Songwriters in Worship Music,” explores the influence of 20th-century African American female Gospel songwriters whose compositions have become integral to African American worship experiences yet lack recognition in secular and sacred music contexts. It examines how these songwriters’ works have resonated across diverse congregations (which will include music written by females from different denominations), fostering unity and spiritual growth, while their identities and contributions often remain overlooked. The focus of this thesis will be a songwriter project that aims to raise awareness, with a particular focus on African American female gospel songwriters. The project will involve creating a presentation to educate worship teams and conferences about the contributions of these songwriters, many of whose works are widely sung but not widely known to have been written by black women. This will include these songwriters' historical significance and the benefits of knowing the stories behind the songs. Special focus is given to exploring how their music is used in worship. The findings aim to highlight the significance of these songwriters’ work, creating a bridge between their artistry and the worship communities that benefit from it, while advocating for broader acknowledgment and celebration of their legacy.

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