A testament to her deep-rooted connection to gospel music, Whitney Houston’s “Hold On, Help Is On The Way,” featuring the Georgia Mass Choir, was released on November 26, 1996. While the song is part of the posthumous 2023 compilation album, I Go To The Rock: The Gospel Music Of Whitney Houston, its original release was on the soundtrack for the film The Preacher’s Wife. Whitney Houston, one of the best-selling artists of all time, was raised in a musical family with a strong gospel foundation, and her powerful voice was honed in her church choir. This particular song showcases her incredible vocal talent in the genre where it all began, with the Georgia Mass Choir providing a dynamic and stirring backdrop of traditional gospel.
The collaboration with the Georgia Mass Choir on this track was pivotal, amplifying the song’s emotional and spiritual weight. The choir, an American gospel ensemble from Macon, Georgia, known for its powerful sound and dynamic performances, contributed significantly to the soundtrack’s success. The gospel-infused album, released under Arista Records, became the best-selling gospel album of all time, demonstrating the immense impact of Houston’s work and the broad appeal of her return to her musical roots. This song, in particular, captured the essence of hope and resilience that resonated deeply with audiences, cementing its place as a standout track in her storied career.