I’ve known the John Newton story for a number of years, how he became a Christian during his time as a captain of a slave ship. In later years, when he wrote the words to this song, long after he had left the slave trade, he finally realized how terribly wrong and sinful this occupation had been. What I did not know was the history behind the melody until I saw this YouTube video.
Enjoy!
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3 Comments(+Add)
So the melody would be considered the cultural equivalent of the blues today? If only God would give us melodies from heaven, then we could avoid all the cultural contamination.
John Newton – A sinner saved by grace.
Sounds like fanny shaking music to me.
All I can say is WOW…absolutely my favorite hymn…and knowing the backstory makes it even more special.