Kansas City is world-renowned for its jazz and blues music traditions, but KC also played an essential role in shaping Black gospel music.
A new documentary film, “I’m So Glad,” looks at how the same forces that shaped jazz in Kansas City’s 18th and Vine District also shaped Black gospel music. Lovers of music, Kansas City culture and history will enjoy this film, at two upcoming screenings, Apr. 28, 5:30 p.m., at the GEM Theater and May 7, 2 p.m. the KCK Public LIbrary.
“The themes are how this music sustained people in troubled times, was important in the development of communities and went on to influence and reshape the nation’s musical landscape,” says the documentary’s producer and writer Paul Wenske. “Churches and gospel performers in Kansas City contributed to the gospel sound in Chicago and elsewhere.”
The film is a celebration of the rich heritage of the Kansas City area’s Black musical legends and contemporary artists, their impact on the development of gospel music, and their contributions to the nation’s larger cultural history. “I’m So Glad” showcases the stirring music and stories of the city’s pioneering gospel greats of the past, today’s best-known artists and active artists throughout the metro area.
The film tells the previously untold tale of the development of Black gospel music in the Midwest. The documentary reaches back to the underground railroad in Quindaro, Kansas; the Exoduster movement in the late 1870s, which brought 40,000 African Americans and new sources of music to Kansas; and the vibrant music department of Western University, whose graduates introduced African American folk traditions into the mainstream.
There is the story of Winston Holmes, who launched a record company to compete with the larger White-owned labels that controlled the “race records” market in the 1920s. The documentary profiles gospel stars of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, such as Michael Charles, Genetter Bradley, and Alma Whitney.
The film also shows how a new generation of gospel singers are carrying on the rich tradition. The documentary is narrated by Isaac Cates, who is known internationally for his composing, arranging and directing.
The film is intended to preserve and celebrate Kansas City’s unique style of Gospel music and make it accessible to audiences. By informing audiences of the great heritage of Kansas City’s gospel music, the film hopes to foster greater cultural understanding and an appreciation for Kansas City’s tradition of Black Gospel music as a valuable art form and unique cultural treasure.
The film runs 120 minutes. For more information, future showings, and clips visit imsogladproject.com.
Upcoming Showings
April 28
The Gem Theater
1615 E. 18th Street, Kansas City, MO
Reception at 5:00 p.m. and showing at 5:30 p.m.
Free and open to the public
May 7
Kansas City, Kansas Public Library
625 Minnesota Avenue, Kansas City, KS
Showing begins 2:00 PM
Free and open to the public
