Beginner’s Guide to Gospel Guitar

So, you want to play gospel guitar? Maybe it’s the soul-stirring chords, the call-and-response dynamics, or the way the music seems to touch something deep inside. Or maybe your church band just needs a new guitarist, and you were voluntold for the job. Either way, welcome to the wonderful world of gospel guitar!

Before you start thinking you’ll be the next prodigy straight out of Sunday service, let’s cover the basics—what you need to know, who you need to listen to, and the techniques that’ll take your playing from amateur to anointed.

Key Concepts for Gospel Guitar

Gospel music is built on a few core elements. If you master these, you’ll be well on your way:

1. Chords, Chords, and More Chords

Gospel is rich in extended chords—major 7ths, minor 7ths, dominant 7ths, and diminished chords are everywhere. You need to be comfortable moving beyond your standard cowboy chords (though those do have their place).

Watch This Video On Gospel Chords

2. The Number System (Seriously, Learn It)

If you don’t know the Nashville Number System, now’s the time. Gospel musicians rarely call out chords like “G major” or “C7.” Instead, they’ll say, “Go to the 4!” (which, in the key of C, is F). If you don’t know what that means, you’ll spend rehearsal looking more lost than a first-time visitor at a tent revival.

Watch This Video On the Number System

Download this FREE PDF on the Number System

3. Rhythm & Groove

Gospel guitar isn’t just about playing the right notes—it’s about feeling the music. You’ll encounter everything from slow, soulful ballads to upbeat, foot-stomping shout music. If your strumming sounds like a rusty metronome, your congregation might start praying for a miracle.

Top 3 Gospel Guitar Players to Listen To

If you want to play great gospel guitar, you need to listen to the masters. Here are three legendary players who can listen to so you can get that Gospel vibe.

1. Jonathan Dubose Jr.

Known as the "Maestro," Dubose has played with gospel greats like The Clark Sisters and Hezekiah Walker. His expressive, jazzy approach to gospel guitar is a masterclass in tasteful playing.

2. Spanky Alford

If you love neo-soul and gospel, Spanky Alford’s playing is essential listening. His work with D’Angelo, The Soulquarians, and gospel artists bridges the gap between church and groove-driven R&B.

3. Isaiah Sharkey

Though best known for playing with D’Angelo and John Mayer, Sharkey’s roots are deeply planted in gospel. His mix of jazz, gospel, and R&B makes him one of the most dynamic guitarists today.

Top 3 Gospel Albums to Study

Listening is just as important as practicing. These three albums will show you what great gospel guitar sounds like in context:

1. The Clark Sisters – Live… One Last Time

A masterclass in gospel music, featuring Jonathan Dubose Jr. on guitar. If you can’t feel the spirit on tracks like Blessed & Highly Favored, check your pulse.

2. Fred Hammond – Purpose By Design

Fred Hammond’s blend of contemporary gospel, R&B, and funk features some of the smoothest gospel guitar playing you’ll hear.

3. Israel & New Breed – Live from Another Level

This album showcases a more modern, praise-and-worship style of gospel, with intricate guitar parts that move the congregation and the musician alike.

Techniques You Need to Master

You’ve got your listening homework—now let’s talk about how to actually play gospel guitar like a pro.

1. Chord Voicings & Inversions

Open chords are great for campfires, but gospel guitarists rely on smooth, sophisticated chord voicings. Learn how to play your chords in different positions up the neck so you’re not just strumming like a beginner at their first worship service.

Download this FREE PDF for Chord Voicing Triads

2. Fingerpicking & Hybrid Picking

Gospel guitarists often use a mix of fingerpicking and flatpicking, especially for those sweet, melodic fills between vocal lines. If you want to sound polished, work on your dexterity.

3. Call and Response Playing

Gospel music is built on interaction. Learn to play licks that “answer” the choir or vocalist. Think of yourself as a second preacher—except instead of words, you’re preaching with your guitar.

4. Swells and Ambient Playing

Modern gospel often incorporates ambient, atmospheric guitar work, using volume swells and reverb to create a lush background. If your church has a worship team, this is a must-have skill.

Final Word: Put in the Work!

Gospel guitar is more than just playing notes—it’s about feeling, groove, and soul. If you put in the time to listen, practice, and learn from the greats, you’ll be well on your way to playing music that moves hearts and lifts spirits.

And remember: if your first few rehearsals feel like a train wreck, don’t worry. Even David had to slay a few lions before he faced Goliath. Keep at it, and soon enough, you’ll be the one making people stomp, shout, dance, and lose their minds—one chord at a time.

Alec, Founder of Soulful Guitar Lessons