Fisk Jubilee Singers Bring Spirituals to the World

Nine Fisk University students began a world tour in 1871 to save their cash-strapped institution. The Jubilee Singers introduced African American spirituals — "Swing Low," "Go Down Moses," "Deep River" — to Northern and European audiences. They raised $150,000, saved Fisk, and performed for President Grant and Queen Victoria, permanently establishing the spiritual as a recognized art form.