Learning from the Pain of Black Music

Mahalia Jackson’s music is making me a better listener

Photo by Jamelle Bouie on Wikimedia Commons

My dad first introduced me to Mahalia Jackson years ago, and when I listened, she captivated and consoled all at once. Her long trills fitted neatly into the grooves in the air, as if she had her own key to them. And in the caverns created by her deep, lilting voice, I heard the faith and resilience of a…