Gospel music in Southern Africa came about through a fascinating synthesis of religious music brought to Africa by missionaries, and traditional African music styles. The majority of South Africans today are Christians. Apart from the recognised international denominations, there are thousands of colourful African Independent Churches. Every Sunday, in every town and village, different services are being held, and they are accompanied by musicŠ a simple choir, a band with solo singers, some drumsŠ a myriad of styles and languages Congregants can be seen under trees, on hills, from Johannesburg to Cape Town. And today, you will hear many influencesŠ from American gospel to contemporary pop, as well as the original African roots.This selection presents some of the best of South African gospel today. The ZCC (Zion Christian Church) is the largest independent Christian Church in South Africa, numbering well over 4 million adherents. Their music is little heard, and we are privileged to have some ZCC tracks here. Steve Kekana is a pop icon in South Africa, here singing a gospel song. Other artists have been widely supported by the large South African gospel buying market, while the Soweto Gospel Choir has achieved amazing international recognition. Music styles range from South African pop, through traditional accompanied styles of hymn and gospel singing, to a cappella choir. This is joyful music, spiritually uplifting and colourful in the African way.