Originally released in 1996 as part of the soundtrack for the film The Preacher’s Wife, Whitney Houston’s rendition of “Joy to the World,” featuring the Georgia Mass Choir, was also included on the posthumous compilation album, I Go To The Rock: The Gospel Music Of Whitney Houston, released on March 24, 2023. This collaboration brought together one of the most celebrated vocalists of all time with a renowned American gospel music choir from Macon, Georgia, founded by Rev. Milton Biggham in 1983. The song’s genre is firmly rooted in gospel, with elements of traditional and contemporary Christian music, and was originally released under Arista Records.
The collaboration with the Georgia Mass Choir infused “Joy to the World” with an undeniable power and spiritual energy, elevating the classic hymn into a dynamic and contemporary gospel anthem. The song is a testament to Whitney Houston’s deep-seated love for gospel music, a genre that was instrumental in shaping her vocal style and career. Her work on The Preacher’s Wife soundtrack, which is the best-selling gospel album of all time, solidified her legacy in the genre. This specific track highlights not only her incredible vocal prowess but also her ability to connect with the raw and communal spirit of traditional gospel music, leaving a lasting impact on listeners.