The New Negro Spiritual Project

This course examines the historical roots and theological depth of the Negro Spiritual, tracing its journey from the fields of the enslaved to its modern expression through the New Negro Spiritual Project. You will explore how these sacred songs served as tools for liberation and coded resistance, and how contemporary artists like Warren Cooper continue this legacy. The program provides a detailed analysis of musical structures and lyrical themes that define the tradition while offering curated resources to hear these works in their modern context. By the end of this study, you will understand the critical link between historical faith-based activism and the current cultural preservation of these musical works.