Christian Music Stars Unite to Remix ‘How Great Thou Art’, Share Song’s Fascinating History

Christian Music Stars Unite to Remix ‘How Great Thou Art’, Share Song’s Fascinating History

The beloved hymn “How Great Thou Art” has inspired Christians for decades. As the song celebrates its 75th anniversary, worship leader Matt Redman honors its legacy with an updated version.

The singer-songwriter told CBN News about her unique collaborations with many Christian artists, including Chris Tomlin, Hillary Scott, Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, Naomi Raine, Blessing Offor, Jon Reddick, TAYA, Brian and Jenn Johnson, Matt Maher, Pat Barrett , Benjamin William Hastings, Ryan Ellis, and Mitch Wong — familiar voices known as vocal powerhouses in their own right.

Such a variety of prominent voices speaks to the song’s prevalence in the church today.

“You go around the church, the different streams and expressions of the church — you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t find some kind of connection with this hymn,” Redman said, noting the song spread like “wildfire” once upon a time. it was first played at Billy Graham’s crusade.

The worship singer offered his perspective on why he believes “How Great Thou Art” has become such a timeless and popular song:

 

“I think it’s probably because it has this beautiful story, starting with the creation, getting the cross, but we get a chance to say what we think about it,” Redman said. “I think some of the best hymns, they’re like classrooms and chapels — they … educate us, inspire us, bring something to mind. and then they give us a chance to respond to that, say what we think about it.”

He said the song, unlike most old hymns, is still under copyright. The copyright holder – who is usually very protective of the song – approached Redman and asked him if there was a way to celebrate the song’s 75th anniversary.

Given what’s happening in Ukraine as Russia continues its war with a much smaller country, the song’s history becomes even more important. Redman shared a historical fact about the song: British missionary Stuart Hine wrote the English lyrics while in Ukraine.

 

Redman felt it was “a very poignant time to have … a new version,” with proceeds going to Ukraine and humanitarian causes in Eastern Europe.

Another unique aspect of the 2024 version of “How Great Thou Art” is the inclusion of a new section that Redman hopes will inspire Christians walking in a “broken and warring world.”

“It’s amazing to see it come to life,” he said of the song, praising the strong voices that came together behind him to make it all work.