The origin and locus of Black academic theology is not found in abstraction, ideology, philosophical debate or political struggle alone. This may have become a part of it. Rather, its origin and locus is in critical reflection upon the lived experiences of African Americans in bondage and freedom. Living experience continues to evolve and is shaped by the forces of history which no one can escape. Gospel music enables us to remember and gives us the language to remember experiences of bondage and to stride in freedom with greater wisdom. Black experience, in bondage and freedom is the crucible of Black gospel music. It reflects the heart and evolving nature of Black experiences of the masses. As long as gospel music continues to emerge from the existential and collective experiences of the masses of African American people, it will be an essential resource for understanding and interpreting African American spirituality, theology and survival strategies. Gospel music thought neglected as a resource for Black theology in the academy in an earlier day, can no longer be neglected. It must be front and center if this discipline is represent God-talk in Black communities.