God, Gays & The Gospel | How Gay Culture Influence Gospel and Popular Music

[@BlackMusicArchive]

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[@ehalverson9323]

Luther is King of Gospel

[@croissant2024]

This subject is dear to my heart. So many closeted Gays in church singing their hearts out to God bc he’s the only one who understands in a world that doesn’t want you alive. Especially in the church. 🙏🏽 idk bout y’all but my My Lord loves his children! AMEN! 🙌🏽

[@javiermojica6322]

@@prestonh Your "struggle" is yours, and yours alone. Do not project it on anyone else. How tragic it is that you can come here, watch this life-affirming footage of people who have expressed their very loving spirit against all odds, and STILL you cannot fully open your heart to them. You ARE judging them by bringing up the usual stale receipts (the Leviticus dogma, etc.) to justify they are below you. Whatever "certain things" they do in their intimate lives are none of your concern - and frankly, the notion of a God in "His" throne getting triggered by what us earthlings are doing sexually is ridiculous. Shouldn't "He" be concerned more with, for example, how we're messing up the environment? HELP YOURSELF and go find out WHY you are struggling. Was it somebody in your childhood who taught you how to shame yourself? Was it later in life that your environment gave you a social disease to un-accept yourself as God made you? RECLAIM YOURSELF. Go to a social worker. Get therapy. Do some serious soul searching. Pray without prejudice. LGBTQ people will continue to be born in this world (and change it) as it has always been whether you or anyone else likes it or not. JOIN THEM. Divided we all fall. Join the forward flow of LIFE.

[@dmay8290]

Amen.! Well said! Your words said it all for me. Thankyou so much for sharing.

[@peachespointofview]

GOD doesn’t condone homosexuality.

[@CraigWiggins-cz2qp]

@@javiermojica6322Thank you!!! Because his shit is his not everyone else!!

[@jamesross6476]

"In a world that doesn't want you alive", is a dramatic overstatement. God does not just advocate for one group to repent, but all that hope to follow him must repent. God bless you 🙏🏽

[@drock228]

Thank you guys for making this video. Folks need to know this history. They've always been gay folks in church & in particular the black church. They have made significant contributions to gospel music & the larger culture in our society in general. Great video!

[@prestonh]

Homosexuality is a sin and it should not be glorified. Videos like this commending gay people because of their sexualities should not exist. God loves all of us. But the same way He doesn’t want us do to certain things, is the same way He doesn’t want us to be gay. Don’t get me wrong. I don’t judge gay people, I personally have dated a man and struggled with homosexuality in my past, but I have learned and grown, because I had to make sacrifices for my relation with God. Homosexuality is a sin. (Leviticus 18:22, Leviticus 20:13, Jude 1:7, Roman’s 1:26-28, Mark 10:6-9, etc) And the thing that makes homosexuality worse than other sins is that you consciously choose it every day. You choose to identify as “gay” or “queer.” Identification with sin, is committing to it. You cannot commit to sin and to God, because the two are opposites. By no means is that to say God hates gay people, God is love. But I’m sure it disappoints Him to see His people constantly choosing sin over a genuine relationship with Him.

[@iamemancipate]

@prestonh their sexuality wasn't being glorified. Their HUMANITY was. Do humans who happen to be gay not deserve their contributions recognized, especially when those contributions have had a lasting impact on culture? Aren't we supposed to add references and works cited to borrowed extractions? The answer is yes and society has greatly benefitted from black queer culture. Oh, and by the way, in case you're trolling... withholding and / or abstaining still do not change one's orientation one way or another.

[@prestonh]

@@iamemancipate I said “because they’re gay” this video is how “gay culture” (which should not exist) influence gospel (something that should be about praising God) and popular music- which effects us all. All humans deserve validation regardless of sexuality. But validation BECAUSE of sexuality?? Absolutely not.

[@barbarareel71mom1son04]

​@iamemancipate I agree, and gay people have strong influences in music, fashion, entertainment, etc, and deserve to have their talents recognized the same as anyone else. People are quick to judge a person for being gay while overlooking their own sins. This was a great video. 😊

[@claudiakramer4516]

​@@prestonhyou are in denial of history, black music history. And you wonder why RnB is dead because of historical revisionism as you present here

[@divatalk9011]

It's interesting that gay men have often gravitated towards Divas who grew up in the Church from Aretha, Patti, Whitney and of course Martha Wash and the Diva House Genre etc. I was aware of this phenomenon, but never understood it. To hear this fantastic analysis of the gays and Gospel definitely helps explain this. What an interesting topic.

[@ayoq9956]

Don’t forget Donna Summer

[@kaniela42]

...and when those DIVAS left the church, it was those same gay men who bought their albums, attended their concerts, and supported their careers!

[@divatalk9011]

@@kaniela42 Chaka Khan said she'd be "nothing without the children"

[@divatalk9011]

@@ayoq9956 well she had her own internal struggle with homosexuality

[@Jerontaeofficial]

Not my Uncle Rickyyy😭🤦🏾‍♂️

[@Mrballerize]

I think it's nuanced. No, I wouldn't hold the position of black gospel music originating out of "gay culture". It very clearly is a continuation of the liturgucal practices of the slave spirituals, and more or less became an official established genre post Thomas Dorsey, Mahalia Jackson, quartets like the Golden Gate Quartet, etc. That being said, queer people seemed to have great involvement, and influence in the performance and formation of gospel; and it is historically important to recognize that.

[@MattPicsET]

This is a very interesting topic. Some names that come to mind include Little Richard, Sylvester, Tevin Campbell, not to mention the countless Disco/House DJs, Frankie Knuckles, Larry Levan, all of whom brought the gospel sound to new artistic territories. Thanks for this insightful video!

[@KAY.BEE1]

Luther

[@WhitneyHouston4eva1]

It's been known for years that there were gays in the gospel community. A lot of them remained closeted for years due to the hate they would get. This has been a good subject that Milik has posted. Music is universal and loved by many regardless of their sexuality, religion or the colour of their skin. Disco music has always been associated with the gay community from It's inception in 1970s.

[@bobbyschannel349]

But that doesn't mean that gospel music is gay, and black music is gay, because it's not. Gay people have nothing to do with black music, knock it off.

[@jeremycollins8045]

@@bobbyschannel349you sound stupid.

[@octodaddy2553]

@@bobbyschannel349watch the video

[@bobbyschannel349]

@@octodaddy2553 the point is, is..... yeah, okay... gay people are around black people they are in our-Community, whatever, don't make it sound like they created something. People just so happened! To be gay.. just because someone gay does not take the Blackness away, they still have soul they still have black American Musical expressions... Exedra, don't make it sound like it's gay black as opposed to black and happen to be gay.

[@KBWeeds]

@@bobbyschannel349Stop your delusions. You wouldn’t even have your freedom without gay people. #BayardRustin

[@rshdbrwn]

For this to come out during pride month, two days away from Juneteenth… my heart is so full. I know so many beautiful queer artists who are continuing the Legacy of Sylvester and The New York Community Choir (who i had no clue existed before this video) that would benefit from watching this. I cant wait to get into Tim’s work, and continuing supporting you Malik. God bless y’all ❤️

[@KBWeeds]

@@fightingquads9198STFU and go away! Nothing is sick except your obvious hate.

[@joseestrada395]

This is history and should be thought in schools for all of us to learn to co exist and not be divided.

[@kenitahearne9765]

““ ‘Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.” - ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭18‬:‭22‬‬

[@kenitahearne9765]

“In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed shameful acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their error.” - ‭‭Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬‬

[@kenitahearne9765]

Are y’all not going to honor GOD’s word. With love I say GOD’s word. I am a sinner need to repent but let’s tell TRUTH about what sin is

[@kimwashingtonofficial6041]

Matthew 3:2 Amplified Bible (AMP) “Repent [change your inner self-your old way of thinking, regret past sins, live your life in a way that proves repentance; seek God's purpose for your life], for the kingdom of God is at hand.”

[@miraclesblessings5044]

Can we start with how freaking fantastic Tim Dillinger's glasses are??????? Now how fantastic is this video? People must acknowledge the epic contributions to the gospel genre. It seems that every generation makes a contribution that advances the culture that the previous generation will try to deny or condemn.

[@acrabbylionesspride5739]

Yes!@glasses!

[@mrlevhil]

I did a screenshot search for the glasses. I couldn't stop looking at them.

[@calblue8694]

​@@mrlevhilwhat did you find

[@c.jillallen-hood4685]

This is something I feel so strongly in my heart, on many levels. So many people within the LGBTQ+ Community need to hear and share this. First and formost, WE are HUMANS, CREATED BY GOD IN HIS/HER IMAGE. WE ARE NOT DEFINED OR IDENTIFIED BY OUR GENDER OR SEXUALITY. WE ARE FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST!

[@alexanderthomasson9098]

I am so happy I found your link on KZbin. I am a native NYer from Queens. I am a 1970’s baby. I grew up in the Black Church (Pentecostal/Apostolic). I came out while I was in the Armed Forces. This documentary has brought back so many fond memories of the songs and the gospel artists. I remember hearing and knowing a few of the children that sang at the famous “Institutional COGIC”. Wow, wow, wow. Thanks for sharing our contributions to the Church and music.

[@ksellers3]

Did you come out before or during Don't Ask Don't Tell? Were there any repercussions to you coming out during that period? And, thank you for your courage and service!

[@thebrothaj]

THIS. WAS. FABULOUS! clara ward? i had no idea! i think for some of us who grew up missionary baptist & c.o.g.i.c. our first... "experiences" were born at choir rehearsal! and low key... james cleveland was the LAST person who needed to condemn the mighty clouds of joy for taking their music to the kids. trust me.

[@keefecarroll1985]

James Cleveland's adopted son would definitely have had something to say about his "father".

[@UriyahMommy]

I said the same thing.

[@pearl0818]

Me either

[@thisistheendministries2557]

@@keefecarroll1985exactly

[@ayoq9956]

Oooo guurrrl they ain’t ready for this video! But I’m SOOOO glad you made it! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@candyraindrops4]

Gospel music comes from the hearts & souls of our ancestors. Blacks folks going through something; I’m unsure why we’re legit saying gospel originated through gays. Like what?!

[@micey522]

Right..its like they got insert their sexuality in everything... The whole damn black community went thru oppression..I mean did gays have a certain high note that hetero couldn't hit or were they only soprano...is that the contribution🤷🏾‍♀️

[@dandeluxe8731]

The video isn't outright saying that gays invented gospel. They're pointing out how much they've contributed to it and how they helped popularize it.

[@finderkeeperrrs]

Please rewatch the damn video. Like c'mon now, I know you can think

[@jeremycollins8045]

At 12:20 That’s Coko of SWV’s mother lady Tibba and she can blow. She also trained Coko herself to sing.

[@Peziya1998]

Yes it is!!!!! She trained her very well!!!

[@Peziya1998]

The lady that's leading the song with the New York Community Choir is Lady Tibba Gamble who's the mother of the iconic girl group SWV (Sisters With Voices) lead singer Coko Gamble!!!! That's her in this video singing lead with the choir!!! Coko has even said that her mother use to do session work and background vocals for the legendary Sylvester!!!

[@TwanTheScientist]

Yup you are %100 correct 💯

[@fwl585]

Thank God someone is finally tackling what is one of the biggest open secrets in the Black church. You’d have to be living in a cave to be a fan of gospel music and be ignorant of the influence of the closeted LGBTQ people who wrote the songs we sing in church to this day. Condemn it if you will, but the contributions of this community will not be denied. We’re saved, sanctified, and worshiping God in spirit and in our TRUTH.

[@kctaylorsings]

​@nikkiloveslife4841 You need to go to a dentist and ask them to have mercy on your teeth. Girlfriend you look like a chipmunk. Please stop being a troll and a hateful human being. Live your life and stop worrying about everybody else's. Blessings 🙌

[@mikel2971]

@@nikkiloveslife4841your Jesus and god is depicted with long hair though 😂😂😂😂 y’all so hypocritical over there ctfu

[@AnthonyWilliams-dy1sg]

I don't condone gay culture, LGBTQ is wrong in nature and against God

[@benjaminingram4857]

But yet you deny God's word is against homosexuality.

[@frederickweeksjr.1189]

That's a stretch.

[@barenaissance3146]

It’s too many ignorant people in the comments missing the point of the documentary and making assumptions, that are rooted in homophobia. He’s not saying the gospel itself wouldn’t exist without Black gay men. He’s discussing the unique impact and connection that Black gay culture and gospel music have with each other. No matter the era, region or genre. Y’all can’t erase gays from the church. Period.

[@finderkeeperrrs]

​@@thisistheendministries2557wow what a horrible thing to fucking say 🖕🖕. Not all gay people were molested when they were younger. I'm gay and that never happened to me. Grow the hell up and mind you damn business. Us gays don't have to answer to your bullshit god or stupid religion 🖕🖕

[@PxstelMorgxn]

@@thisistheendministries2557Omg you are stupid asf 😂😂

[@melanieprice5535]

People Don't have homophobia, they are just quoting the God of the Bible, and He ain't scared or phobic. He fought Satan and kicked him put of heaven. He hung on the cross, was dead buried and rose on the 3rd day. He ain't phobic!!! He's Holy and commands, "be ye Holy as I am Holy". He don't hate nobody, ain't scared of nobody, but demands total obedience from us all. He has earned the right to say what's Holy and what's not.

[@Survival-fr4ow]

That's not what he said. Please don't put your spin on his statement.

[@donovanrobinson1843]

Lady tibba Gamble aka coko’s mom of SWV was one of the premier vocalists of the New York Community Choir. I love their work such beautiful and powerful songs. Ps she is the high soprano leading in the clip

[@stillwaters4097]

I'm surprised Ricky Dillard wasn't mentioned. One of the best to do it even to this day. I remember seeing him in the clubs back in the day.

[@kp5959]

I had a huge crush on him growing up lol

[@thisistheendministries2557]

@@kp5959😒🙄

[@thisistheendministries2557]

@@kp5959please repent

[@dansmodacct]

@@kp5959I don’t blame you haha

[@dansmodacct]

@@thisistheendministries2557you mad? 😂

[@jmorg044]

Boils down to what’s more important gospel music or living a life pleasing to the father …

[@faithwe74]

I choose the latter

[@Trial.And.Error1]

Exactly. But they don't want to hear that !

[@florida6714]

I came straight to the comments and stopped on this one...speak truth! Enough said. Amen.

[@waynepond8748]

living a life pleasing to the father is living a life of love not homophobic hate. I personally do not understand why some people think gay people are choosing to be gay like there is some magic button they can press to make them straight but they refuse to press it. There should be a documentary on the emotional and psychological trauma gay people face especially in the church which also leads to suicides and suicide thoughts. I also wonder how many quote Christians are puttting in any type of energy to stop violence against people simply because they are gay

[@Trial.And.Error1]

@@waynepond8748 because you disagree with something doesn't make you homophobic. And God says such act is an abomination. He didn't create man for man. I personally believe that if one says they are born that way they have a genetic mishap.. not judging, to each their own. But my belief is my belief

[@KingQuintonic]

This is beyond amazing! Thank you for making this

[@cassandrasoler8309]

I'm speechless. That was an amazing conversation, wish it was longer. Your channel shines a light on music in general and specifically. Continue to do what you do.

[@thisistheendministries2557]

Its the same story. 90% of these “gospel artists” were molested, including Clara ward, which is how they ended up this way. That perverse demon got on them, because a door was opened that many of them did not close. Which means they are in hell, or on their way if they did not repent.

[@chigal0926]

This was excellent. This is one of my favorite KZbin channels!!!🥰🥰

[@amberleysmith7158]

Haven't even pressed play yet, but I'm so glad you touched on this interesting topic. I've been saying for a while that music has been the church biggest ministry. Therefore, a lot of LGBT people have brought a lot of people to Christ.

[@Ishbikes]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@SouthSideLadyWright]

@amberleysmith7158. Homosexuals can sing gospels all they want but their hearts are far from God. You can't serve two gods🤷🏽‍♀️

[@Emeless]

Gospel music spawned out from the souls of many same gender loving individuals who also sought to live a Christian life. The inherent conflict of these two things is at the root of the passion and creativity within gospel music. This has always been and always will be. Music in general is a manifestation of the human experience which includes being gay, straight, in love or heartbroken.

[@TeeceeMoody]

I disagree. Homosexuality isn’t foundational to Black gospel. That music came out of African spirituals and slavery just like the rest of American music.

[@TeeceeMoody]

@Traveline Correct! Black American.

[@benjaminingram4857]

But unless you repent of all your sins including homosexuality none of your gospel songs will matter.🙏

[@claudiakramer4516]

​@@benjaminingram4857by this statement, I can tell that don't understand the context of black music

[@juicyparsons]

well said!!

[@corneliuswhite5139]

Very nicely done. Time permitting it scratches the surfaces, but the chronology is spot on with regard to the 70s and 80s. Very informative.

[@GatorGirl04]

Terrific video essay! The history, nuance, care and respect for the intersections was moving. Definitely need more parts and thanks for collaborating with godsmusicismylife gonna follow him now.

[@TheRetroWoman80]

Tim Dillinger's spectacles are so different, I love them!! This is a necessary topic. Glad you covered it, Milik. It's amazing what my older generation 🌈 community has been responsible for. The hateful world wants to discount/deny all of their influence and accomplishments but thank goodness this channel does not👏👏👏👏👏💚💚💚😊

[@dawn220]

Powerful! There were SO many gay men I knew back in the day who were “in the church”. In fact I was introduced to a now very popular singer who currently is a pastor and also records regularly with his choir. I happened to meet him at a club called Better Days on 49th Street…

[@trevy7321]

such a GREAT topic that’s rarely discussed. kudos to you for this!

[@ElijahLukeMusic]

My dad had this tape and that's when I came a Tramaine fan. The Hawkins sang backup for Sylvester and his song Sex. It was all good music. To me that made it even better frankly.

[@keepingitrealandtruthful.5081]

Sylvester was a member of Love center where Walter Hawkins (Tramaine ex husband) was the pastor and Yevette Flunder was the assistant pastor at the time.

[@adrina911]

@@keepingitrealandtruthful.5081 Walter Hawkins was James Cleveland’s protégée. 😏😏😏😏

[@keepingitrealandtruthful.5081]

@@adrina911 That explains why Walter was singing at James's local church funeral.

[@keepingitrealandtruthful.5081]

@@adrina911 So was Billy Preston before he got really famous. Billy was featured on James Cleveland's first 2 albums on the savoy label.

[@candice4725]

Amazing! Amazing! Thank you for continuing to shed light in history that people would rather forget.

[@thisistheendministries2557]

The history is the same story. Always the same story. 90% of these “gospel artists” were molested, including Clara ward, which is how they ended up this way. That perverse demon got on them, because a door was opened that many of them did not close. Which means they are in hell, or on their way if they did not repent.

[@keefecarroll1985]

I'm surprised Donnie McClurkin, James Hall & WAP and B. Slade/Tonex weren't mentioned........ We definitely need a part 2 and part 3 of this.🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@keepingitrealandtruthful.5081]

Professor James Hall big time.

[@Dahjonruby]

Absolutely I’m shocked

[@kkswagg4833]

I didn't know James Hall was a part of the gay gospel community, is this something he has said or ppl are assuming based on his mannerisms? A genuine question.

[@keepingitrealandtruthful.5081]

@@kkswagg4833 Larry Reid had the receipt although Larry had since Apologised to Hall.

[@idellaspencer-miller2751]

add James Cleveland to the list aswell.

[@Best_Gospel_Songs_80s]

Thank you for this song and your humble worship of Jesus! This really inspired me today and I can sense His presence in your true worship of Him.. I praise Him for all he has done in my 57 years on this earth and what he continues to do. HE HAS NEVER LET ME DOWN.......AND HE LOVES US ALL SOOOO VERY MUCH!!

[@shawnpreston1639]

THIS is so informative and insightful. It’s hidden history of the church. Yet, if you turn on the news they want us to believe that gay issues are new issues. No! The only thing that’s new is not being quiet about it and used for our talents, exploited for our contributions, but excluded for recognition and acceptance.

[@Edwinlikestechno]

Church isn't about "Gospel music", it's about God's word. God calls us to repent, and turn from our sin. We've all sinned and fallen short, but pretending God will accept the sin because we decided it's "acceptable" is just wrong.

[@finderkeeperrrs]

Good thing god ain't real. But to each their own😂

[@nikkiloveslife4841]

PREACH THE TRUTH! These people who thinks that it’s ok for two men or two women to be together are a bunch of reprobates. It’s against God and nature.

[@RUTHE1ONE]

LUV LUV LUV The ARETHA album cover in the backgroud!!

[@kctaylorsings]

Absolutely, Aretha Franklin's influence on American Music will always be noted ❤

[@BEM4RU]

There would be no Gospel music without God! Gospel is the teaching of Christ. Therefore, Gospel music is music that teaches about Christ. There would be no gospel music with out gays is implying that gospel music is about gays. It’s simply about God.

[@PhillyPhR3sh]

You’re being tone deaf. Jesus is always the answer, but gospel music today has an immeasurable impact from the gays.

[@BEM4RU]

@@PhillyPhR3sh God Bless You!

[@MsLitaa]

Amen sister 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@michaelxchi]

Amen!

[@NIJEECAPRICORN23]

Just in time for black music month!! I love it. I do remember reading about Clara Ward and the Ward singers. Man her momma Gertrude was extremely stricked on them especially Clara. Clara sister wrote a book about their lives and how Clara had a bisexual life style. This is a great video. I remember hearing about James Cleveland too. We need a Part 2 to this discussion.

[@TheRetroWoman80]

I agree it is needed.

[@Dizizjaz08]

Clara Ward needs a bio pic movie !

[@joshuamcdowell9745]

Josephine Howard from The Caravans, Miki Howard's mother, lived a bisexual lifestyle as well. I heard Shirley Caesar got down with the ladies too.

[@johnneils9084]

Thank you you for continuing to make enjoyable videos with great commentary. Great interview. 🌺

[@lazlomattachine8334]

This is a wonderful video on an important topic in the history of American music. Thank you for shining a light on the role of Queer artists in Black gospel music!

[@darkskinss]

Yasss. This was so informative and timely.

[@darkfeather6857]

Milik, I await each new video with baited breath. You are a gift to humanity, thank you for sharing your work! Please consider adding the name of the group/singer and song when you include clips. I would love to know more about these old time choirs and groups that you showed snippets of, but I have no idea how to search them up. I am especially curious about the singer at :52. Thank you again.

[@BlackMusicArchive]

"Traveling Shoes," - The Ellison Singers

[@hwd7]

I'm a Christian and love good music, thank you for sharing these great songs and artists with me.

[@thisistheendministries2557]

🤦🏽‍♀️

[@dandeluxe8731]

​@@thisistheendministries2557 Is there a problem? 🤨

[@thisistheendministries2557]

@@dandeluxe8731 bye!!!!!!! 🙄🙄🙄🙄😒😒😒😒😒

[@dandeluxe8731]

@@thisistheendministries2557 Goodbye and good riddance then haha

[@thisistheendministries2557]

@@dandeluxe8731 I never said hello

[@dariusbrock2351]

I enjoyed this interview/broadcast very much! Thank you again!

[@britneyarne3347]

God does not hate gay people, he hates their behavior/actions. We can acknowledge that there may have been gay people who have contributed to Gospel music, but that doesn’t mean we should just be fine with their behavior- it is not of God as it clearly states that in the Bible..

[@finderkeeperrrs]

Oh please no way on earth will y'all care bout my behavior as a gay man. Mind your business and tell that to your damn god

[@ericking8661]

"God does not hate gay people, he hates their behavior/actions." Do you think that I just woke up one day and said, "I hate God, so I'm going to have an intimate /sexual attraction to men?" That's not how that works. Use your brain. If the God,/Jesus I presume you serve, is the creator of all things, why would he create homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, pansexuality, etc..? If that's something he hates, wouldn't he just make everybody heterosexual?

[@tangapayne8744]

Wow. Loved this mini documentary. I wished it was longer!!!

[@TheDkSkye]

Right on time 👌🏾 thank you all for this 🖤🌈 🎶 ✨ I always learn or relearn something from this channel.

[@qkranarchist3015]

Thank you for all your work to tell such important stories and the background of these treasured, talented spirits. What a reservoir of amazing interviews and analyses on BMA.

[@juanbishaw4358]

Can't wait to share with my friends!

[@Septemberxmusic]

God loves everyone. Thank you for sharing this 🙏🏾

[@craishon]

As a bi black man who was raised in church and directed the youth praise team. This is very affirming

[@fawaka5006]

Tramaine’s The Searcy is Over is criminally overlooked and not mentioned enough alongside Kirk, Mary Mary, The Winans etc. crossover success. That following up Freedom is also a banger. Two of my fav. Albums period. Tramaine’s A&M records are golden. Vanessa Bell Armstrong’s Jive records are equally brilliant.

[@MrBarrywes]

​@@nikkiloveslife4841 back in the day I thought Tremaine was strikingly beautiful. Looking like a model. As you know when people sing that good they don't always look like models. Black people we don't always treat our own right either.

[@dansmodacct]

@@nikkiloveslife4841 huh??! tremaine Hawkins still has pipes and looks not even half her age. She is THEE definition of black don’t crack 💯

[@dansmodacct]

@@nikkiloveslife4841 that's true! Sadly true. SMH

[@dusroots]

@@MrBarrywes they didn't call Tramaine the gospel Whitney for nothing. Lol. Beautiful faces and beautiful voices to match. 🙌🏿❤️

[@Cyber_Diva]

Another great video easy, Milik!! Thank you.❤

[@DannyLTerry]

THIS WAS AWESOME!!! IN THE MONTH OF BLACK GAY PRIDE💙🌈🖤

[@DannyLTerry]

@@nikkiloveslife4841 BITTER WOMAN CAN'T FIND A GOOD MAN BECAUSE A BETTER MAN CAME ALONG😹😆🤣😁😅😆🤣🤣

[@DROIDX40]

​@@DannyLTerry lol and I oop.

[@johnnycomer]

Being gay ain't nothing to be proud of because if you don't get delivered you are hell bound.

[@DROIDX40]

@@nikkiloveslife4841 Keep the that negative sH*t to yourself. Life is already hard enough. And y'all ain't helping. I'm sure y'all are doing something that is y'all quote on quote ain't worthy. Give us a break. And worry about y'all straight selves. We good and proud.

[@DannyLTerry]

@@johnnycomer GET UNDER MY FEET YOU DEVIL!!! I AM SAVED MORR THAN YOU, BORN SANTIFIED & GAY, FILLED WITH THE HOLIEST OF GHOST. 🙌🙌🙏❣🙏🙌🙌

[@j.scottofficial]

I’m so thankful for this video. Would’ve been amazing if I had this information/reassurance when I was younger. BABY THIS IS THE LORDS WORK 👏🏽

[@thisistheendministries2557]

No it’s the work of Satan. God is not within 10 trillion miles of this. Its the same story. 90% of these “gospel artists” were molested, including Clara ward, which is how they ended up this way. That perverse demon got on them, because a door was opened that many of them did not close. Which means they are in hell, or on their way if they did not repent.

[@tabitha245]

THANK YOU FOR THIS! As a queer person this was very informative & it’s so upsetting that the church STILL has a problem with the gay community when in fact some of the gospel artist that the church reveres were reaching the lost with the gospel. Another that comes to mind is Rance Allen. At the end of the day God is to be glorified not man.

[@ksellers3]

Unless you had same gender loving with Rance Allen it's not right to make assumptions about his sexuality.

[@hprm33t]

As a junior in college in the mid-90s, a wonderful professors, Dr. Daniel Black at Clark Atlanta University, encouraged students in his African American studies class to research black gospel music in the 1970's. I didn't choose to write about that but remained curious about the topic. Would enjoy seeing you interview Professor Black, Malik! Separately, I would love to see a specific part of the series devoted to Reverend James Cleveland. He was so influential on the sound, style, and prominence of gospel music for multiple decades. Miki Howard a few words to says about Rev Cleveland in her past interview with Malik. Tim mentioned the "spat" Cleveland had over the "direction" of gospel music. Would definitely like to know more about his influence on the continue evolution of the genre. Thank you for your work!

[@t_ylr]

It's me. Hi I was the gay playing guitar on the praise & worship team 😂

[@SouthSideLadyWright]

You're only pleasing man with your sinful flesh. Playing instruments and singing gospel songs means nothing to God since your heart is too far God. You can't serve two gods. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@humanr.e8529]

I watched this twice back to back. The biggest secret that isn't a secret 😉 Thank you for this 🏳️‍🌈

[@janepatton8100]

The worth and dignity of a soul is measured by what it delights in! And delight/happiness is our highest desire. Men have killed to have it. Kings have gone mad trying to find it. Wars have served it. Affairs have worshiped it. We all seek it. Sadly, billions have died without discovering its secret... namely, that joy is not an it, but a He. The Gospel is the good news that sinners can delight in a Holy God. It's the good news that all of our deepest desires are satisfied in the ONE who sent His Son to bring us to Him. . God is so valuable and so satisfying that the most loving thing he could do for us is to make Himself gloriously indispensable. He is the only being in the universe for whom self-exaltation is the highest virtue. Therefore, God's commitment to be glorified and our goal to be satisfied are not at odds but come to simultaneous consummation in the worship of His Son... who took upon Himself the Wrath that God had towards us in our sinful disregard of Him. A wrath that could never be appeased through man-made religion. Jesus didn't die to turn the world into a paradise, he died so that we could stop seeking paradise in the world... Temporal things such as beauty, popularity, money, sex, racial identity, gender reassignment... can never truly satisfy. BECAUSE WE WERE MADE FOR SO MUCH MORE! We were made to gaze intently into the Eternal Beauty of a majestic King, Father, and God... meet Jesus the Christ. Life is hard, God is good, Glory is coming 😊... Thanks for taking the time to read this comment. May God bless you with all things necessary for life and goodness. God Bless!

[@TruthNloV3]

I knew I wasn’t the only one! It was that good!

[@fightingquads9198]

I think many are confusing gays in Gospel as some type of validation from the Most High of their sin. Poison in the ointment doesn't make the poison good, it's still poison.

[@finderkeeperrrs]

Oh please being gay is not a sin and as soon as you tell your god to shut the hell up and to stop believing in that nonsense the world can be at some damn peace

[@nikkiloveslife4841]

PREACH!

[@purplelove010]

They are not poison, they are human beings

[@ericking8661]

​@@purplelove010Thank you.

[@LusterThomas-if7nt]

Tell the pastors that when they get caught with a gay or trans person.

[@DRLEWIS]

Are we going to talk about how many people were perverted in the church as a result abused sexually molested and turned out as children and teenagers? In 2019 I went to the Gospel music workshop recital here in LA. Now me? I am a photographer I enjoy shooting concerts especially gospel concerts. I saw so many young homosexuals, male and female that they had been ruined at Young ages. The weight of that sin fell so heavy on my heart on my spirit that I had to leave and go home. I had to sit down at the table and cry and pray. The weeping was extreme. The weeping was! God is upset about this thing. satan has been trying to turn me into a homosexual most of my life. He is tried to turn me into a stud broad the devil is a. LIAR!!! ONE OF THE MAIN THINGS I WAS GIVEN TO UNDERSTAND IS THIS ABOUT HOMOSEXUALITY. THAT DEMON IS STRONG AND WILL BEAT THE PERSON UP FROM THE INSIDE OUT, IF THEY FIGHT TO NOT INDULGE.

[@tashawnalbert]

I just pray internal peace for you in your mind, body, and spirit, and that God would speak to your heart and confirm just how much he loves you! 🫶🏾

[@thadlincolnii7398]

@@tashawnalbert Dr. Lewis is likely a TROLL.

[@finderkeeperrrs]

I am so sorry that you feel homosexuality is a sin. But being a homosexual is not demonic or a sin. And I am a gay man and I will not let you rain on my parade. I hope you heal and understand that being homosexual is not evil.

[@thadlincolnii7398]

@@finderkeeperrrs Playthrough, the people who call themselves Christians and only condemn LGBT people are nothing but PHONEY political christians. Many of them commit several of the sins in the bible. For example, fornication, lying, adultery, bearing false witness, and more. Many are just re peating wht supremacist or wht nationalist talking points against LGBT people. These phoney christians have NO moral capital to condemn anyone.

[@loveroffreedomp.5426]

@@finderkeeperrrswhat do you do about Leviticus 20:13, Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Galatians 5:19-21, Revelations 21:8. These are a FEW of things God says about this! I don’t think it’s PEOPLE who can “rain on your parade”, but God Almighty. His word NEVER changes!!

[@JulianPatrickMiller]

Brilliant work! Keep going!!!

[@deedee3317]

Praise The Lord with great thanks. May He forever be Glorified. Thank you Preston Hamilton for speaking truth in love. It is as the Bible speaks that if the world hates you, remember they hated Jesus first as the backlash received from sharing the truth testifies. Continue to receive strength, joy and comfort from His precious hand upon your life. John 15:18-20

[@maxtheknife]

Thank you for doing this. I often wondered why Tramaine received so much backlash while the Winans did not despite recording music directly targeted to an R&B audience. The difference was the Winans music was not as club friendly so not as attractive to the gay male consumer.

[@didierrobert13004]

God bless you for doing this video. Thank you ❤

[@amalek2750]

If you want to get rid of the musicians on Sunday morning at church because they are "different", be prepared to sing acapella. Truth

[@JustusJermaine]

This definitely needs a fully funded production! This was great

[@thisistheendministries2557]

😒😒😒

[@lantoniowhite5603]

This was an amazing Video! Amazing Job y’all!

[@chimaobiihekaire8481]

I loved every part of this - thank you for sharing.

[@popland1977]

This will be an interesting video. It's always been an uncomfortable internal struggle to square the circle between what the Old Testament states and accepting people regardless of sexuality

[@luigigabrielofficial]

It's in the New Testament as well

[@popland1977]

@@luigigabrielofficial I just remembered Leviticus being particularly problematic

[@MariaSilvaHelena]

​@@nikkiloveslife48411 Timothy 1:10 too

[@RobandSijay]

@@nikkiloveslife4841 u talk about calling names but u the but hurt hoe calling everyone demons lol if its so demonic go drink some holy water and dab your forehead with oil, hop on one foot while speaking demonic gibberish

[@popland1977]

@@nikkiloveslife4841 Great, so at least I know both the New and Old Testament are homophobic, thanks for helping to expose this issue

[@lawandarutledge6969]

I grew up in the church and we never had anyone in our church that was gay because my pastor would have meetings with the church and the leaders who would be in authority of different things in the church you were told how to live by the Holy Bible and you had to get the Holy Ghost and turn from your wicked ways we were a strict Apostolic Pentecostal church and we still stick by the Bible and our principles that God has told us to live by

[@user-yj7ey7ql6k]

Same here! I was raised Pentecostal and never wore a pair of pants or jeans my whole life let alone cause division in the church by one side being gay and the other side straight. We are ALL supposed to be on ONE accord and that’s according to the Holy Spirit and repentance. All the same ONE spirit and walking in that same ONE spirit! God would NEVER make half the members gay and the other half straight and then declare a divided flock ALL saved and sanctified. That’s a LIE from the pit of HELL! Holy Ghost said: Romans 16:17 "Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.” 1 Corinthians 14:33 "for God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.” Mark 3:24 "If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.”

[@TwanTheScientist]

That lady singing the lead in that 12:20 part in New York Community Choir is Coko from SWV mother!!! ❤️

[@MusicG33k]

This was absolutely amazing!!

[@paulomilan515]

This one and the black makeup one. Aww snap this is a treat! Is viewers feel social noaw you really be thinking out the box about us.

[@andremitchell8026]

I disagree about Tramaine Hawkins. The issue was Gospel singers / Musicians going into the clubs AKA the secular world, which was strictly prohibited. As a Preachers (Pastors) kid, as a Church musician, you did not go into the clubs and sing and play instruments in clubs aka the "Devil's Music". Also, I'm old enough to remember we were not even allowed to listen to secular music, so during that time, it was out of order to mix genres etc.

[@saintjay8058]

So now I’m curious were there any queer gospel singing men of Clara’s time , I feel like it’s pretty widely acknowledged that most of the big selling females of that time were queer but I never hear about those male groups or big male stars living in there truth off stage

[@BlackMusicArchive]

Little Richard was openly gay and sang gospel. I'm sure there were others, but for most, it was more so understood, or their sexuality was made public after they passed.

[@ChrissyPoo516]

James Cleveland. Even the biggest female gospel singing artists weren't "out" back then; please know these were considered rumors for several decades.

[@popland1977]

@@BlackMusicArchive And poor Little Richard, because of his religious upbringing, denied he was gay multiple times, especially when he would turn away from secular music. If he was born now, his ability to free would be so much easier

[@bmwjourdandunngoddess6024]

Wait they were Queer themselves??

[@saintjay8058]

@@Dizizjaz08OMG girl

[@terryedwards7212]

I would love to see you interview my favorite gospel male artist - Tonex, aka B.Slade. His take on this subject would be very interesting to hear & see!

[@thatredheadguytv]

THIS WAS AMAZING!!!!!! WELL PUT TOGETHER!!!!!! Just wish Tim could have went deeper.......because their is so much more to be discussed!

[@mattw4496]

Did you read the description/pinned comment? This is only a condensed version, like a teaser. They're working on a feature-length documentary.

[@Ferdinand314]

I've had notifications enabled for you for years, and I never get them! Anyway, you're doing phenomenal work, and I appreciate it. Thank you and keep it up!

[@MarcusMartn]

I love this video thanks for bringing this to the light

[@Red22762]

It still doesnt change the Word of God!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@RavenlucJanie]

Amen

[@mykoniichistorychannel]

It’s not trying to. Besides, I dunno if I’d call writings of dead Greeks and Arabs the word of God.

[@Red22762]

@@mykoniichistorychannel Neither, would I!! What are you talking about?

[@CraigWiggins-cz2qp]

And the Word of God says do not judge!! Please!!

[@RavenlucJanie]

@@CraigWiggins-cz2qp No it doesn't. Do you judge your kids, spouse or significant other?

[@tedwinnofficial]

Fascinating. I learned some things watching this. The preservation of history is so important.

[@setapart2serveministries]

These folks are going to become part of the 2nd Death if they don't repent before Christ's second coming! "Do As Thy Wilt" is a belief from Thelema and it's of Satan. You cannot do what you want and hide behind so-called gospel music thinking that God Almighty has & will approve this living of the world. 2 Timothy 3:16

[@SANDYMILLER23]

Disco is God's way of bringing everyone together. Disco is and was a secular progression of Gospel music with an Earthly overtone. Gospel music can truly make you dance. Read Psalms 149:3 "Let them praise God's name with dancing"!!! 🤎🙏🤎🙏🤎

[@TheClubCouldNever]

Omg this was amazing!

[@terrencejames8259]

This is a blessing! Thank you!

[@tamoneb]

This was a great watch.

[@jacegainer3841]

The word problematic doesn't even come close to describing James Cleveland, but one aspect of his comments on The Mighty Clouds of Joy was valid. He was hypocritical for disparaging the "Rock Gospel" due to one, Gospel being the foundation for Rock & two, his sound wasn't all "traditional gospel" he blended showtunes, pop, Jazz & the blues. The Clouds "mighty high" era had several bops but you wouldn't know it was recorded by a Gospel quartet if you listen to the LP's. The poduction sounded like the O'Jays & they didn't explicitly say "God" or "Jesus" on the songs. Which is what James took issue with. TMCJ responded essentially saying we need hit records to eat, James is making money & played on the radio., So he needs to mind his own business 😂

[@Krispyfrie]

Not long enough!!!!! Needs a part 2, 3, and 4 lol

[@Reo805]

Love this coverage of gospel and gay culture

[@danielgalvao1101]

Thank you for this :)

[@v.a.993]

While it may not have been a gospel song per se, I Want to Thank You by Alicia Meyers, of One Way w/Al Hudson, had the feel of a gospel song. Because she was not considered a gospel artist, I am guessing that her song was considered gospel, though I could be wrong. I am not sure if it charted on the mainstream dance charts in the early 1980s outside of House Music, but it definitely was considered a R&B hit. In Chicago, I Want to Thank You was a HUGE House Music hit. Also Loletta Holloway, a former gospel singer, had HUGE Disco and later House hits with SalSoul Orchestra.

[@mzyotruthnlove8263]

Darlene McCoy included Alicia Meyers song on her gospel album.

[@fatimajamall]

Loev this so much, Milik! Thank you!

[@MrTOdancer]

wow, amazing analysis

[@simcla5]

bless you for making these videos. such good topics and so well done!

[@MrJdolby]

Love love love this! Thank you

[@endigosun]

Understand that this is your perception, but it’s not generally understood this way in the African American community.

[@lesliebobesly4755]

They are trying to claim gospel as a gay art form and not a black one. I mean, a gay white man at the very beginning said "we invented it" 🙄