Watch Rejoice and Shout

Rejoice and Shout is a 2010 documentary film that explores the rich history and legacy of African American gospel music. The film, directed by Don McGlynn, features a range of interviews, performances, and archival footage, all of which come together to tell the story of this powerful and enduring musical genre. With appearances by some of the most influential musicians in gospel history, including Smokey Robinson, Mavis Staples, and Willa Ward, Rejoice and Shout is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of American music.

The film is divided into several distinct sections, each of which explores a different aspect of gospel music. One of the earliest sections of the film focuses on the roots of gospel music in African American spirituals and hymns. Through interviews with historians and gospel singers, viewers learn about the impact of slavery, the Black church, and the Civil Rights movement on the development of this uniquely American genre.

As the film progresses, it delves deeper into the different eras and styles of gospel music. Viewers are treated to performances and discussions about the mid-century "golden age" of gospel, which brought artists like Mahalia Jackson, Sam Cooke, and Sister Rosetta Tharpe to national attention. They also learn about the influence of gospel on popular music, with appearances by Smokey Robinson and Andrae Crouch, two musicians who found inspiration in gospel music as they forged their own careers in R&B and soul.

Perhaps the most moving moments of the film come in its later segments, which examine the ways in which gospel music has been used as a tool for social change. Viewers witness the power of gospel music in the civil rights movement, as singers like Mavis Staples and the Staples Singers used their music to inspire and uplift activists in the struggle for equality. They also see how gospel music has helped to heal the wounds of tragedy and loss, as in the case of the memorial service for the victims of the September 11th attacks, which featured a performance by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to performances by some of the greatest gospel singers of all time. We hear the soaring voice of Mahalia Jackson, the soulful sounds of the Staple Singers, the exuberant energy of the Delaney Sisters, and the haunting harmonies of the Clark Sisters. We also see contemporary gospel groups like the Blind Boys of Alabama and the Mighty Clouds of Joy, who continue to carry on the tradition of gospel music into the 21st century.

Overall, Rejoice and Shout is a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of African American gospel music. Through its mix of historical footage, interviews, and performances, the film provides a comprehensive look at a genre that has had an immeasurable impact on the course of American music and culture. Whether you are a longtime fan of gospel music or simply interested in the history of African American art and culture, Rejoice and Shout is a film that should not be missed.

Rejoice and Shout is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 72.