Gospel music has a long history of inspiring and uplifting audiences around the world, and its influence can be felt in a wide range of musical genres. Its beautiful sounds can be felt at the heart of culture, and over the years, several gospel artists and songs have been nominated for Oscars, one of the most prestigious film awards in the world. Here are ten times when gospel music has been featured on the silver screen and in major awards.

"Glory" - Common and John Legend (2015): "Glory" was featured in the film "Selma," which tells the story of the civil rights movement in the 1960s. The song won the Oscar for Best Original Song, and its powerful lyrics and soaring vocals made it a standout moment during the ceremony. "I Believe I Can Fly" - R. Kelly (1997): "I Believe I Can Fly" was featured in the film "Space Jam," The song's uplifting message and R. Kelly's soulful vocals made it a hit with audiences of all ages. It went on to score three Grammy Awards and many more nominations. "O Happy Day" - Edwin Hawkins Singers (1970): "O Happy Day" became an international hit in 1969, reaching No. 4 on the US Singles Chart, No. 1 in France, Germany, and the Netherlands and No. 2 on the Canadian Singles Chart, UK Singles Chart, and Irish Singles Chart. It has since become a gospel music standard. The song was nominated for several awards and has won a grammy for best soul and gospel performance. "He Lives in You" - Lebo M (1999): "He Lives in You" was featured in the film "The Lion King II: Simba's Pride," and its powerful vocals and stirring melody made it a hit with audiences. The song was not nominated for an Oscar, but it remains a beloved gospel classic. "The Preacher's Wife" - Whitney Houston (1996): "The Preacher's Wife" was a film that featured several gospel songs, including "I Believe in You and Me," which was performed by Whitney Houston. The song was nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song, but did not win. "I Am Changing" - Jennifer Hudson (2006): "I Am Changing" was featured in the film "Dreamgirls," and Jennifer Hudson's powerful vocals and emotive performance made it a standout moment in the film. The song was not nominated for an Oscar, but it remains a beloved gospel classic and Jennifer Hudson a great lover and singer of gospel music has been nominated for many awards uncluding academy awards. "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" - Beyonc (2015): "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" was featured in the film "Selma," and Beyonc's soulful performance of the song was a highlight of the film. The song was not nominated for an Oscar, but was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2007 and in 2012, Mahalia Jackson's recording of "Precious Lord, Take My Hand" was honored with the Grammy Hall of Fame Award. "I'll Fly Away" - Alison Krauss and Gillian Welch (2000): "I'll Fly Away" was featured in the film "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" and its sweet melody and soulful vocals made it a standout moment in the film."I'll Fly Away" has been called the most recorded gospel song. Bob Marley adapted a reggae version of it in 1973 and recorded it with the Wailers as part of his Rastaman Chant. it was also included as an interlude in Kanye West's 2004 album, The College Dropout. The rendition was sung by John Legend "Let It Shine" - Louis Gossett Jr. (1977): "Let It Shine" was featured in the film "The Deep," and its uplifting message and catchy melody made it a hit with audiences. The film was nominated for best sound at the 49th Academy Awards and best original song the the Golden Globes in teh same year . "Oh Happy Day" - Ryan Toby, Tanya Blount, and Lauryn Hill (1993): "Oh Happy Day" was featured in the film "Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit," and its joyous, upbeat message made it a standout moment in the film. The song was not nominated for an Oscar, but it remains one of the most performed gospel songs of all time.

Gospel music has had a significant impact on the film industry over the years, and these ten items listed demonstrate the enduring power and influence of gospel music, message and culture.

Muyiwa Olarewaju