Biography famous hymn writers

Home / Religious & Spiritual Figures / Biography famous hymn writers

Isaac Watts could say a great deal using common words that was scriptural and exalted English. What kind of life did they lived and what led them to write the hymns they wrote? Composed the music for the hymn “Count Your Blessings,” and both the words and music for “Since I Have Been Redeemed.” Worked with evangelists Sam Jones (for two decades) and Gipsy Smith.

Frances Ridley Havergal
Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879) was an English poet and hymn writer.

John Newton (1725–1807)

John Newton, formerly a slave trader turned pastor, is best known for “Amazing Grace.” His hymns often reflect themes of repentance, God’s mercy, and redemption.

Wrote the music for such familiar hymns as “Christ Returneth!,” “There Shall Be Showers of Blessing,” and “The Banner of the Cross,” and both the words and music for “Verily, Verily,” and “Go Ye into All the World.” Edited fifteen hymn books. Early life of wanton sin. Throughout history, some hymn writers have stood out for their profound impact on Christian worship.

What are the stories behind these hymns? Their hymns communicate theology in a memorable and emotional way, teaching truths of Scripture, encouraging devotion, and enabling worship across generations. Her most widely known hymn is “Take My Life and Let It Be.” Also wrote the words for “Like A River Glorious,” “I Gave My Life for Thee,” and “Who Is on the Lord’s Side?” She published several volumes of poems and hymns as well as prose writings.

Elisha Albright Hoffman
Elisha Hoffman (1839-1929) was an American minister and Gospel song and hymn writer who wrote the words and music for such familiar hymns as “Are You Washed in the Blood?,” “I Must Tell Jesus,” “Is Your All on the Altar?,” and “What a Wonderful Saviour!”

William James Kirkpatrick
Wm.

J. Kirkpatrick (1838-1921) was an American sacred music composer and publisher. Published books of poetry, hymns, and three volumes of theological discourses.

Daniel Webster Whittle
Major Daniel Webster Whittle (1840-1901) was an American evangelist, Bible teacher and hymn writer. He spent twenty years working with an insurance company before becoming part of a team producing computer software for insurance companies worldwide.

Now, he is very much involved in the life and ministry of Trinity Road Chapel, London, UK. This includes leading a team which ministers to the residents in nearby care homes and being part of the team which supports the church’s missionaries.
Peter is the author of a number of published books, including a user guide for the Christian life, a short commentary on Paul’s epistle to the Romans, two books about the promises of God, and an evangelistic booklet that explains simply and plainly what it means to be a Christian.