Which thread demonstrates peoples' vast ignorance of the subject. Gospel was a hybrid, like all forms of African American music was in that era.

I found out about the Hebrides connection myself, listening to the excellent Wade in the Water series I mention above. That series was done by Bernice Johnson Reagon of Sweet Honey in the Rock, who holds a PhD in African American history, and was working with the Smithsonian at the time the programs were first aired. They devoted an entire program to the Hebrides hymn singing and it's influence upon slave music in the US.

I'll take her word for it over the Mudcat motley crew, thanks.