Gloria Gaynor's Testimony Feels Like Coming Home

Gloria Gaynor
"Testimony"
Gaither Music Group
2019

Gloria Gaynor is immediately associated with her million-selling disco hit “I Will Survive.” Almost fifty years later, she has not only survived but also emerged strong and full of vitality on her 2019 gospel album, “Testimony,” which won the Grammy Award for Best Roots Gospel Album. The project is beautifully performed and provides a powerful, uplifting experience.

The album opens with "Amazing Grace," blending Gaynor's testimony with a distinctive choir arrangement of the hymn. "Back On Top” acts as a follow-up to “I Will Survive," highlighting resilience and determination. Gaynor, who has faced loss, grief, and chronic pain from a back injury sustained during a 1978 performance, sings joyfully about the faith that has carried her through life's challenges. Credited as co-writer on all but two tracks—the hymn “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” and a cover of Bob Dylan’s “Man of Peace"—the collection maintains an intimate, personal tone throughout. 

Gaynor enlisted an outstanding group of accompanying musicians for her gospel debut. For vocal support, she's joined by MercyMe’s Bart Millard on “He Won’t Let Go,” Jason Crabb on "Singin' Over Me," Yolanda Adams on “Talkin' 'Bout Jesus,” and fellow Grammy winner Mike Farris on “Man of Peace.” The band features Jimmy Bowland on saxophone, Mike Haynes on trumpet, Andrew Ramsey and Paul Allen on guitars, Chris Stevens and Jason Webb on keyboards, and other players who create a rich, full sound.

Gaynor's "Testimony" album feels like coming home. As gospel music's influence was always present in the work of Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, and Ray Charles, there is a natural kinship with sweet, soulful, heartfelt rhythms that bear the soul and reach for love, whether from earthly companions or the Almighty. If this idea is unfamiliar to you, I encourage you to listen to "Singin' Over Me" and "Talkin' 'Bout Jesus" and turn the volume up. It's a good time to wade in the water.