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(dôr´sē)
, 1899—1993, American gospel musician, b. Villa Rica, Ga. He began his career as a blues pianist and songwriter. Later he became a church choir director in Chicago and was a co-founder of the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses. Widely known as the
"father of the gospel song,"
he played an important role in the development of African-American gospel music. In his over 1,000 songs Dorsey combined elements of the blues with traditional African-American religious music. His works include the early
"If You See My Savior"
and his best-known song,
"Take My Hand, Precious Lord."
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