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The Very First ‘Rap’ Song Debuted in 1946 by The Jubalaires

This gospel group showcased the first example of spoken-sung rapping .

By Moss & FogUpdated 1 min read
A screenshot from archival footage of the Jubalaires, the gospel quartet whose 1946 recording is credited as one of the earliest examples of rhythmic spoken-word performance over music — a style that would eventually become rap, though no one called it that at the time

Rap music has a long and storied history all its own, but it’s not until a recent vintage clip surfaced that the world saw what was possibly the first recorded rap of all time.

Sung by The Jubalaires, their gospel song Noah features clever lyrics about Noah and the Ark, and showcases a style of spoken-singing that was a predecessor to modern day hip hop or rap.

Made up of Orville Brooks, Theodore (Ted) Brooks, Caleb Ginyard and George McFadden, the group was active in the 1930s to 1950s, and were formed in Florida.

Take a look below at the group singing their song, Noah.

A screenshot from archival footage of the Jubalaires, the gospel quartet whose 1946 recording is credited as one of the earliest examples of rhythmic spoken-word performance over music — a style that would eventually become rap, though no one called it that at the time

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