The Sojourners, a Vancouver band specializing in gospel music, have made significant waves in the music world with their unique blend of old gospel and modern styles. Their accidental formation led by a call from blues legend Jim Byrnes has brought a fresh energy to Canada’s gospel music industry.
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The Sojourners do more than make uplifting music – they are deeply committed to promoting positive values. Their music speaks about social justice and faith, and they carry these principles into other parts of life. For example, the band encourages their fans to enjoy leisure activities responsibly, including online gambling.
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The Sojourners’ dedication to promoting good values goes beyond their music. They believe in making thoughtful choices in all parts of life, aiming to have a positive influence on their fans. For them, caring for the community matters just as much off stage as it does on stage. Let’s learn more about how this talented group.
Who Are The Sojourners?
It’s amazing how one phone call can change everything. When Canadian blues icon Jim Byrnes called up Vancouver gospel singer Marcus Mosely and asked him to round up some friends to record backup vocals for his new album, none of them could have guessed what would happen next.
As soon as Mosely and his pals Will Sanders and Khari McClelland stepped up to the mic and started singing, they knew they had stumbled onto something special. Mosely brought his Texas roots, Sanders his Louisiana soul, and McClelland his Detroit spirit – and even though they all came from different places, they were united by a shared love of gospel music that had been nurtured in church choirs since they were young.
With Byrnes giving them the name “The Sojourners,” the trio began a musical journey that would take them from backing up a blues legend to becoming gospel powerhouses in their own right. And as they say, the rest is history.
What Makes Their Music Unique?
The Sojourners create a vibrant mix of gospel, doo-wop, R&B, country, and blues. Their music, deeply rooted in old-school gospel and enriched by their early experiences in church choirs, delivers an authentic gospel core infused with the soul of R&B and the simplicity of country music.
Key Albums and Performances
Since their inception, The Sojourners have released three classic gospel albums that have greatly contributed to their acclaim and shown their growth as artists.
| Album Title | Release Year | Most Popular Songs |
| Hold On | 2007 | – Eyes on the Prize |
| – Run On | ||
| – People Get Ready | ||
| The Sojourners | 2010 | – Brother Moses Smote the Water |
| – Great Day | ||
| – Strange Man | ||
| Sing and Never Get Tired | 2013 | – Don’t Knock |
| – I Ain’t Got No Home |
“Hold On” (2007)
Their first album, “Hold On”, was produced by Steve Dawson. It introduced their strong harmonies and unique sound. This album includes songs like “Eyes on the Prize,” a lively and uplifting track, “Run On,” which makes you want to stamp your feet, and a touching version of Curtis Mayfield’s “People Get Ready.”
“The Sojourners” (2010)
Their next album, “The Sojourners”, helped them gain even more recognition in the gospel music world. This album mixes traditional gospel with a modern touch. Songs like “Brother Moses Smote the Water,” “Great Day,” and “Strange Man” have left a lasting impression on listeners.
“Sing and Never Get Tired” (2013)
Their third album, “Sing and Never Get Tired”, really shows how they’ve grown as artists. It includes both new songs and well-known gospel classics, all performed with the deep feeling that The Sojourners are known for. From the energetic “Don’t Knock” to the deeply personal “I Ain’t Got No Home,” this album is a must-listen for anyone who loves gospel music.
The Sojourners on Stage
The Sojourners have shared stages with major figures in gospel and roots music, including the Dixie Hummingbirds, whose influence is evident in their harmonious and dynamic performances. They have also opened for icons like Dr. John and the Blind Boys of Alabama at major venues, including Yale Blues Bar in Vancouver.
They are regulars at big folk and roots festivals across Canada, where they give performances that audiences won’t forget. Their shows at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, the Edmonton Folk Festival, and the Montreal International Jazz Festival have established them as a must-see live act.
Musical Partnerships
Besides their own albums and shows, The Sojourners have joined forces with other musicians on several projects. They’ve worked with Canadian blues legend Jim Byrnes on his albums “House of Refuge” and “I Hear the Wind in the Wires,” where they added their famous harmonies to his rich sound. They’ve also taken part in tribute albums like “Things About Comin’ My Way: A Tribute to the Music of the Mississippi Sheiks,” showing their flexibility and respect for musical history.
How Do The Sojourners Impact Social Justice Through Music?
The Sojourners weave social justice themes into their music, using their songs as tools for advocacy and change. Their tracks often highlight issues of civil rights and human dignity, echoing the struggles and aspirations of many. Participation in projects like “Let Freedom Sing,” a compilation celebrating the music of the American civil rights era, underscores their commitment to using music as a voice for the voiceless.
Awards and Honours
The Sojourners have earned acclaim not only for their music but also for their contributions to culture and community. Their efforts have been recognized with various awards, and they have influenced countless other artists in the gospel and broader music industry. By blending different musical styles with gospel, they have opened up new avenues for creative expression within the genre.
Where to Find Their Music
For those looking to explore The Sojourners’ music, there are several options:
- Streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music
- Bandcamp, where fans can directly support the artists
- Physical copies are available through their website and at live performances
The Sojourners have breathed new life into gospel music in Vancouver by combining it with elements of modern music and using their platform to address important social issues. Their songs do more than just entertain. They inspire and uplift, encouraging listeners to consider both the spiritual and social dimensions of their lives. As they continue to create and perform, The Sojourners’ influence on music and culture is sure to last, touching both long-time fans and new listeners.