Black Spirituals

1
Black Spirituals

• In relation to Ralph Ellisons Invisible Man

2
Origin

African American spirituals are one mode through
which the melodies and rhythms of Africa found
their way to America. In the fields the slaves
developed a musical combination of "call and
response" which becomes characteristic of gospel
singing. Early spirituals acted for a number of
practical functions for the slaves. Some were a
mode of communication or a map to the North.
Aside from these reasons, their song was a cry
for freedom and salvation. 
3
Spirituals through the ages
In the 1920s, the Black Renaissance was an artist
movement

concerning poetry and music. -It was an
evidence of a renewed race-spirit that
consciously and proudly sets itself apart.
Alan Locke At this time African Americans began
to leave the South and went North. Then, Gospel
songs were more and more popular in Northern
towns, like Chicago. In the late 1950s and
early 1960s, before and during rallies for Civil
Rights, demonstrators sang negro spirituals. For
example, We Shall Overcome and This Little
Light of Mine.
4

• The African-American tradition of spirituals
  and sacred music has continued to change. The
  religious themes that were at the heart of the
  early spirituals continued with gospel, blues,
  and even pop singers. Now in the present era, the
  spiritual tradition is still kept alive.

5

• Black spirituals carry a lot of meaning to
  African Americans throughout history. Especially
  in hard times. Spirituals show up in Invisible
  Man a few times

6

• While at Mary Rambos house
• I think Mary signifies strength and community for
  African Americans. Music has also been a common
  bond and strength for black people throughout
  history.

7

• On page 255 Mary Rambo quotes a song called, I
  Will Move on up a Little Higher.

http//www.youtube.com/watch?v1SKY8AyZyQc
8

Music comes back up in Tod Cliftons funeral. In
a moment of pain, the African American community
returns to its roots in spirituals.
9

• The significance and meaning of Black spirituals
  in Invisible Man is simply to show the strong
  sense of community an tradition.
• IM is often disconnected from who he is and by
  bringing in music Ellison reconnects IM to his
  roots.

10

• This is a performance of Wade in the Water, by
  the Alvin Ailey Dance Company

http//www.youtube.com/watch?vl9uEq9Sjefg