Abstract 

This study examined if African American spiritual music affects awe. Participants (N=302) completed an awe pre-test, listened to an acapella version of “Wade in the Water” or two minutes of silence, then took an awe post-test. Those who listened to the jubilee song reported significantly higher awe levels (Awe Experience Scale) than those who did not. Differences were observed in four of six awe facets: "vastness" (increased in the music group), "time-perception" (decreased in silent group), "connectedness" (increased in the music group), and "need for accommodation" (decreased in both groups). No significant differences were found for "self-diminishment" or "physical sensations," and variables like religiousness, spirituality, and race did not significantly moderate the relationship between condition and these facets of awe. These results underscore the powerful impact of music, especially with religious and historical significance, on enhancing the experience of awe.