Charlotte and gospel

Why Gospel moves me?

Precisely because I don’t know much about Gospel, it fascinates me. And maybe also because I’m not particularly religious myself, I feel even more curious: how do you truly approach a style like this?
How do you sing something so deeply rooted in a culture that isn’t your own?

Vocal coach Charlotte Small explained what Gospel means to her, and how she found her way into that world.
What struck me most was how clearly and honestly she spoke about it.

Because once you understand where Gospel comes from, you begin to feel why it’s such a powerful and meaningful style. It’s music that not everyone instantly understands or deeply connects with. And that’s okay.
But knowing the roots, that’s the starting point.

Gospel grew out of the Afro-American church tradition, with deep roots in the spirituals sung by enslaved Africans on the plantations. Songs of hope, strength, and connection. Over time, it evolved into a powerful musical tradition full of faith, struggle, and community.
And it started with the drums. The beat…

Then I asked the question I already felt coming:
Can I even sing this? Without that background, without being religious?

Charlotte answered without hesitation:
'Yes, as long as it comes from your core.'

And that… moved me.
What moved me even more?
Her words: 'Embrace the no’s.'
I will carry that with me always.