Mahalia jackson+biography

American gospel singer (1911–1972)

Musical artist

Mahalia Jackson (mə-HAY-lee-ə; born Mahala Jackson; October 26, 1911 – January 27, 1972)^[a] was an American gospel singer, widely considered one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century.

Mahalia jackson+biography

With a career spanning 40 years, Jackson was integral to the development and spread of gospel blues in black churches throughout the U.S. During a time when racial segregation was pervasive in American society, she met considerable and unexpected success in a recording career, selling an estimated 22 million records and performing in front of integrated and secular audiences in concert halls around the world, making her one of the best-selling gospel music artists.

The granddaughter of enslaved people, Jackson was born and raised in poverty in New Orleans. She found a home in her church, leading to a lifelong dedication and singular purpose to deliver God's word through song.

She moved to Chicago as