We have a collection of 12 arrangements for Carl Boberg - Stuart Hine - How Great Thou Art
What profound personal experience inspired a Swedish pastor to write one of the world's most beloved hymns? Learn!
"How Great Thou Art" is a Christian hymn that has gained widespread popularity and has been performed by numerous artists in various styles. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Origin: The hymn was originally written in Swedish as "O Store Gud" ("O Great God") by Carl Boberg in 1885. Boberg was inspired to write the hymn after witnessing a beautiful sunset and then a sudden storm on the southeast coast of Sweden.
Translations: The hymn was later translated into German and then into Russian. It wasn't until 1927 that English missionary Stuart K. Hine translated the hymn into English, adding several verses to create the version we are familiar with today.
George Beverly Shea: The song gained popularity in the United States through the performances of George Beverly Shea, a Canadian-born gospel singer. He introduced the hymn to American audiences during the Billy Graham crusades in the late 1940s.
Elvis Presley's Version: Elvis Presley recorded a powerful rendition of "How Great Thou Art" in 1967, and it went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance in 1968. Many consider this rendition to be one of Presley's finest gospel performances.
Hymn and Gospel Music: "How Great Thou Art" has become a staple in both traditional hymnals and contemporary Christian worship. Its adaptability to various musical styles has allowed it to be embraced by both hymn enthusiasts and gospel music performers.
Recognition: In 2001, "How Great Thou Art" was recognized in a poll conducted by the BBC's Songs of Praise as the United Kingdom's favorite hymn. It is also one of the most frequently recorded hymns in history.
Versatility: The hymn has been covered and performed by artists across different genres, including country, pop, and rock. Its enduring message and powerful melody continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Inspiration: The hymn's lyrics express a deep sense of awe and reverence for God's creation and redemptive work. The combination of poignant lyrics and a memorable melody has contributed to its enduring popularity in worship settings and beyond.