Clara Ward was one of gospel music's most revered figures, known for her extraordinary vocal prowess and her role as a key architect in the popularization of gospel music in the mid-20th century. Born in 1924 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Ward was a singer, songwriter, and arranger who achieved fame both as a solo artist and as the leader of the famous Ward Singers. Her mother, Gertrude Ward, established the Ward Singers, and Clara's powerful voice quickly became the centerpiece of the group's sound.

The recordings cited, such as "Higher Ground," "Take My Hand, Precious Lord," and "When the Gates Swing Open," showcase Ward's dynamic and inspirational style, blending traditional spiritual themes with her unique blend of showmanship and spirituality. Her contributions to gospel music were not just limited to performance; she was a pioneer in staging and choreography within the genre. Clara Ward and the Ward Singers performed not only in churches and other religious venues but also in nightclubs and concert halls, breaking barriers and helping to bring gospel music to wider audiences. Her influence extended beyond gospel, impacting artists across various genres. Despite passing away in 1973 at the age of 48, Clara Ward's legacy lives on through her recordings and the generations of singers she has inspired.

Genres

Gospel Singers

Praise

Related Artists

Aretha Franklin

Mahalia Jackson

The Staple Singers

The Soul Stirrers

The Clark Sisters

The Blind Boys Of Alabama

Whitney Houston

Sister Rosetta Tharpe

Dolly Parton

Lizzy McAlpine

CeCe Winans

The Dixie Hummingbirds

Latest Release

Out On A Hill

Clara Ward

Ep - 6 Tracks - Released July 13, 2021