Composer

:

Hall Johnson

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

2:06

"His Name So Sweet" is a gospel hymn composed by Hall Johnson, an African American composer, arranger, and choral conductor. The piece was composed in the early 20th century and premiered in 1936. It is a four-movement work that features a mix of traditional African American spirituals and original compositions. The first movement, "His Name So Sweet," is a joyful and upbeat piece that celebrates the power and glory of Jesus Christ. The second movement, "I Want to Be Ready," is a slower, more contemplative piece that reflects on the need to be prepared for the second coming of Christ. The third movement, "Ain't Got Time to Die," is a lively and energetic piece that celebrates the joy of living in the presence of God. The final movement, "Ride On, King Jesus," is a triumphant and powerful piece that celebrates the victory of Christ over sin and death. One of the defining characteristics of "His Name So Sweet" is its use of call-and-response singing, a traditional African American musical form that involves a leader singing a phrase and the choir responding with a repeated phrase. This technique is used throughout the piece to create a sense of community and shared experience among the singers and listeners. Another characteristic of the piece is its use of complex harmonies and rhythms, which reflect Johnson's training in classical music as well as his deep knowledge of African American musical traditions. The piece also features a mix of solo and choral singing, with the soloists often improvising their own melodies and variations on the themes presented in the choir's singing. Overall, "His Name So Sweet" is a powerful and moving work that reflects the rich musical and spiritual traditions of African American culture. Its enduring popularity and influence have made it a beloved classic of gospel music.

More....