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Gospel music has its origins in the hymns, spirituals and sacred songs found in Afro-American culture in the 18th and 19th Century.

Gospel songs were originally sung by African slaves. Lyrics related to escaping to freedom, with a religious element often in praise or giving thanks to God.

Today gospel music is performed by choirs made up of soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices. Often the music is a cappella. Sometimes choirs will clap to provide a rhythmic accompaniment to their singing.

Many gospel songs feature prominent sections for solo singers. One of the most famous solo gospel singers was Mahalia Jackson. The solo singer, or lead vocalist, may improvise around the melody while the rest of the choir sing backing vocals in harmony in a homophonic style. A common structure used in gospel music is question and answer, or call and response, sections.

Listen to gospel singers Incognito perform 'I'll Fly Away'. You will hear the features mentioned above. Also listen out for a modulation, repetition and imitation.

Now listen to the Maria Fidelis school gospel choir sing 'Oh Mary, Oh Martha'. This performance is accompanied by piano. It features singing in harmony, call and response and syncopation. Towards the end of the clip you will see the choir clap off the beat.