WQED Pittsburgh's music programming continues to expand into new musical genres. There's an old hymn that says, "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord," and gospel music more than meets that challenge.

WQED Pittsburgh celebrates that heritage of "making a joyful noise" with the premiere of "Soul & Inspiration," a new addition to WQED's musical line-up that unites doo-wop artists with gospel artists.

"Doo-Wop has roots in gospel and church," says T.J. Lubinsky, executive producer of the program and WQED's executive producer of fundraising programming and syndication. "Vocal harmony is one uniting, glorious sound."

"Soul and Inspiration" was filmed in conjunction with "R&B 40" in November 2001 at Heinz Hall, downtown. While focusing on vocal-group harmonies (like the "R&B 40" and the "Doo-Wop" programs before), "Soul and Inspiration" presents songs about America, hope, faith and inspiration.

Listen for legendary groups like the Dixie Hummingbirds performing "Love Me Like a Rock" and "Christian Automobile," the Jordanaires (Elvis Presley's backup group) performing "Swing Low" and "God Bless the U.S.A.," and Little Anthony and The Imperials performing "Wind Beneath My Wings."

Other featured groups include the Impressions performing "People Get Ready" and "Amen," Johnny Maestro & The Brooklyn Bridge performing "You'll Never Walk Alone" and "Peace of Mind," the Fairfield Four performing "Crying in the Chapel," the Reflections performing "Dig a Little Deeper," Sam Moore performing "The Lord's Prayer," and others.

Music lovers of all ages won't want to miss these legendary vocal groups from the '50s and '60s, celebrating faith, hope and inspiration in song.
"Soul and Inspiration" will air June 8 at 7 p.m. during WQED 13's spring fundraising event.