Many artists experiment with gospel music, some use it as a source of inspiration, while others grow up around it in the church.

Here are five times that mainstream artists explored gospel music.

1. Aretha Franklin - Amazing Grace

Aretha Franklin recorded her live gospel album Amazing Grace in 1972, it took place at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles. The track of the same name is the 7th song on the album - its one of the most famous gospel songs of all time and Aretha put her own spin on it.

2. Whitney Houston - In Return

Whitney Houston recorded this song as part of her 1991 album titled Live in Japan - the concert took place at the Yokohama Arena in Japan. In Return was originally sung by gospel legends BeBe and CeCe Winans in 1987.

 3. Sam Cooke - Touch The Hem of His Garment

Sam Cooke sang Touch The Hem of His Garment in 1970 - the track appeared on his album The Two Sides of Sam Cooke. Touch The Hem of His Garment is based on a bible story told in Mark 5, it is often used as a story to teach people about having faith, Sams track details the story of a woman who was sick for a long time and when she touched Jesus robe, she was healed.

 

4. Marvin Gaye - His Eye Is On The Sparrow

 

Marvin Gaye sang his own version of the famous gospel song His Eye Is On The Sparrow. It was added to a 2005 two-disc album titled Gold - the record included some of Marvins greatest hits. His Eye is On The Sparrow is thought to be associated with a scripture in Matthew 10.

 

5. Mariah Carey - I Am Free

 

Mariah Carey sang I Am Free in 1995 and it was part of her fifth studio album titled Daydream. I Am Free is about overcoming negative mindsets, it also explores how love and acceptance can positively impact someones life.

Gospel music has had defining moments in every decade thanks to artists such as Sam Cooke and Whitney Houston.