Last time on Revive Our Hearts, Nancy DeMoss Walgamuth began to unpack the history of a much-loved hymn,

which is now 250 years old.

We talked yesterday about Amazing Grace, John Newton's most famous hymn.

It was first published in 1779, written in 1773, for a New Year's Day service. We don't know what tune the hymn was sung

to in 1773, but it's written in what poets call the common meter, so it could fit with a lot

of different melodies. Or the congregation may have just recited it in unison. But composers soon

started adding music to go with the words.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, this hymn was sung to 20-some different melodies.

Then in 1835, more than 60 years after Amazing Grace was written, it was joined with the popular folk tune that we most often sing today.

It's now included in a thousand or more published hymnals.

And since the advent of radio and recording, it's been recorded.

I read one statistic that said over 7,000 times, another said over 10,000 times.

It may be way more than that by now.

The first recording that we know of was an acapella version in 1920, and then so many,

many people are recorded at Mahalia Jackson in 1947, used it during the civil rights movement.

...maves... faith and grace.

Focinger Judy Collins recorded in 1979,

it immediately broke into the top 20 pop charts around the world, which is probably how it became as well known as it is today in this part of the world.

It's been recorded by Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Johnny Cash.

Willie Nelson. Charles, Johnny Cash. But now I'm found.

Willie Nelson and Elvis.

Was sung at the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969.

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