Honoring the Matriarchs: Black Spirituals, Field Hollers, and Slave Seculars on Mother's Day
By Lamont Jack Pearley
Today, on Mother’s Day, we take a moment to honor the legacies of Black mothers, grandmothers, and aunties whose voices and influence continue to resonate through the traditions of spirituals, field hollers, and slave seculars. These women were not just caregivers—they were cultural bearers, spiritual leaders, and community builders who shaped musical traditions that echo through generations.
Matriarchs of Song and Spirit
Black women have long been central to the creation and preservation of African American musical traditions. Their songs were more than melodies; they were lullabies, spiritual sustenance, and even coded messages of hope and resistance. In the fields and churches, their voices led communal singing, embedding messages of resilience and liberation into everyday life.
Ella Sheppard with daughter courtesy of Fisk University Special Collections
One of the most influential figures in this tradition was Ella Sheppard, a soprano, pianist, and arranger who was a key member of the original Fisk Jubilee Singers. As a matriarch of musical preservation, she helped share spirituals with wider audiences, moving these powerful songs from the fields to the concert halls.
Field Hollers and Slave Seculars: Voices of Resilience
Field hollers and slave seculars were more than just work songs—they were vocal expressions of individual and collective identity. Often led by women, these songs conveyed personal feelings, social commentary, and communal bonds. The call-and-response patterns found in these traditions laid the groundwork for blues and gospel music, genres where female voices have been particularly influential.
Five women officers of the Women's League in Newport, Rhode Island, c. 1899
Honoring the Matriarchs Today
Today, we celebrate the enduring legacy of these women—their songs, stories, and strength. Their cultural contributions live on in the music we hear in churches, the rhythms of blues and jazz, and the narratives passed down through generations. They remind us of the power and resilience that Black mothers, grandmothers, and aunties have given to our cultural heritage.
As we celebrate Mother's Day, let us honor the matriarchs whose voices have carried us through history, whose songs have been our solace and strength, and whose legacies continue to inspire us.
Further Exploration
For those interested in delving deeper into this rich history, consider exploring the following resources:
These resources offer insights into the origins and evolution of spirituals and the pivotal role Black women have played in shaping this musical legacy.
