The Jackson Singers, one of the most prestigious spiritual and gospel groups in the United States, were founded by Bob Jackson in Indianapolis in 1983 and since his death in 2002, Fitzroy Burroughs has been the group’s director. Although members –singers and musicians– are from different parts of the country, they all have a common foundation, that of a “good Church”. This is where the gospel and spiritual aspects which make up their program come from, which include songs such as the contemporary “God bless the child” by Billie Holiday to “Amazing grace” by Aretha Franklin; from “Bridge over troubled waters” by Simon & Garfunkel to “Blowing in the wind” by Bob Dylan.
Although their language is international – music based on The Bible– The Jackson Singers are more accessible and popular due to the way they interpret music, how they bring together their enthusiasm and devotion in equal measure. Wherever they perform –churches, cathedrals, jazz festivals, galas…– their music wins over and moves their audience. Through their music they express universal love and challenge sadness and suffering. They claim the gospel is a way of life, a way to express love for one’s neighbour, an expression which requires no understanding of the language to understand and feel the passion of the singers.
The Jackson Singers were the first gospel group to perform in Germany after the collapse of the Berlin wall. They have also sung with international stars such as Lionel Hampton, Odetta, Oscar Peterson, Paul Anka and José Carreras.