Final answer:
The statement is true; gospel music's traits are rooted in African traditions and experiences of enslaved Africans in America, who merged these with Christian hymns and spirituals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is true. Several traits of today's gospel music are indeed a direct outgrowth of the experiences of African people brought to America. The structure and characteristics of gospel music have historical roots in African musical traditions that include an emphasis on percussion, syncopated rhythms, and the use of bent or blue notes. When enslaved Africans converted to Christianity, they infused their music with both their new beliefs and the nuances of their African heritage. This amalgamation of musical influences formed the backbone of spiritual songs and hymns that expressed the deep pain of bondage and a steadfast hope for freedom. Furthermore, gospel music's emotional intensity can be traced back to the worship styles of the Methodist and Baptist traditions, which were particularly resonant among enslaved communities who sought solace and strength in their religious expressions.