Inspired by a Swedish thunderstorm in 1885, “How Great Thou Art” has become a timeless worship staple for Christians worldwide. The hymn, originating in Europe, was formally published in America in 1949 and gained widespread popularity when it was televised on June 16th, 1957, during Billy Graham’s New York Crusade. Baritone singer George Beverly Shea’s rendition introduced the song to an estimated 19,000 attendees, marking a pivotal moment in its history.

In an exclusive interview with Christianity Today, Shea revealed that the song was requested nearly 100 times during the Crusades, becoming a televised introduction and spreading its iconic lyrics to millions.

On its 75th anniversary, “How Great Thou Art” continues to captivate hearts across generations and denominations within the Protestant church. To commemorate this milestone, Integrity Music enlisted Grammy Award winners Matt Redman and Mitch Wong, along with renowned Christian performers Chris Tomlin, Matt Maher, Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, and Naomi Raine, to create a collaborative tribute.

Facing the daunting task of making subtle changes to the beloved hymn and composing a new fifth verse, the team, led by Redman, crafted a powerful addition that aligns with the richness of Stuart Hine’s original verses. Hine, a British missionary, translated the hymn into English and shared it with WWII Ukrainian refugees.

Despite the intimidating nature of modifying such a timeless piece, Redman and his team successfully added a commanding fifth verse that echoes the inspiration behind Hine’s fourth verse. In an interview, Redman expressed the desire to include the word “war,” acknowledging the gritty realities of both the every day and the eternal.

“Until that day When heaven bids us welcome, And as we walk this broken warring world, Your kingdom come, Deliver us from evil, And we’ll proclaim our God how great You are!”

Recorded at LA’s Gold Pacific Studios and Nashville’s RCA Studio B, where Elvis Presley recorded his Grammy-winning version in 1967, the new verse brings fresh depth to the hymn. Its release on January 26th, 2024, coincides with a noble cause, as the proceeds will be dedicated to the Ukrainian humanitarian effort.

Billboard reported Redman’s vision for the song’s future growth, with potential orchestral and choir versions commissioned by the Stuart Hine Trust. As believers continue to put their testimonies to a song, “How Great Thou Art” stands as a timeless anthem of worship, now with a renewed purpose to serve others around the world.

Catch this newest rendition of ‘How Great Thou Art’ here on Praise Hits.

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