The Gospel Guitarist's Guide to Surviving (and Thriving) During a Praise Break

Ah, the praise break—that glorious, spontaneous eruption of uncontainable joy in a gospel service where the music kicks into overdrive, the congregation starts moving like they've got Holy Ghost-fueled rocket boosters, and the musicians? Well, we strap in for dear life.

As a gospel guitarist, the praise break is both your rite of passage and your cardio session. It's where your calluses are tested, your wrist endurance is challenged, and your ability to follow the organist's subtle eyebrow raises becomes a matter of musical survival.

So, What Exactly Is a Praise Break?

A praise break is that electrifying moment during a gospel service when the spirit moves so powerfully that words aren't enough. The preacher might shout, "Somebody give Him praise!" and before you can say "capo," the drummer hits that double-time snare, the organist slides into those classic shout chords, and the bassist locks in with a groove so tight, it could hold your car keys.

The Guitarist's Role: More Than Just Power Chords

While the organ often takes center stage, the gospel guitarist is the secret weapon. Your job? Add rhythmic stabs, melodic runs, and funky licks that make people shout like they've found $20 in their coat pocket. Think of it as being the hot sauce in the musical gumbo—not the main ingredient, but you’d miss it if it wasn’t there.

Pro Tips for Navigating a Praise Break:

1. Know Your Shout Progressions: The key of A-flat is your best friend. (Yes, A-flat. Gospel musicians have a deep, complex relationship with flat keys.) Practice moving through this key with precision and flair.

2. Sync with the Drummer: Lock in with the snare hits. Your choppy, percussive strums should complement the beat like grits complement gravy.

3. Read the Room: Is the congregation spiraling into a higher plane of praise? Dial up the intensity with rapid-fire licks. Are they catching their breath? Ease up and let the organ breathe.

4. Keep It Tight: This isn’t the time for your 10-minute, face-melting solo. Short, sharp, and soulful wins the race.

Examples in Action:

• James Fortune "Praise Break"

• Norman Hutchins "Praise Break"

Final Thoughts:

Surviving a praise break as a gospel guitarist isn't just about skill; it's about spirit. Feel the music, watch your fellow musicians, and remember—if all else fails, just keep strumming confidently. After all, in the whirlwind of a praise break, it's not about perfection; it's about participation.

And maybe, just maybe, pack an extra set of strings. You'll thank me later.

Alec, Founder of Soulful Guitar Lessons

Watch This Praise Break Guitar Tutorial