The modern-day hymn writer, Stuart Townend

Introducing Stuart Townend is being released on February 23 from Kingsway with EMI CMG Distribution, in recognition of one of the most prolific “modern hymn writers” in the world today.

The recording features UK-based Townend’s “In Christ Alone” and “How Deep The Father’s Love”.

Both songs are among the top 50 most sung worship songs in the US, according to CCLI, and are examples of Townend’s distinctive lyrics that are rich in theology, poetry and have contributed to the worshipping life of the church worldwide.

Having written at least 119 songs that congregations are singing (CCLI), Townend’s ability to craft songs with great lyrics and accessible melodies has caused some to draw comparisons with the greats of previous generations, such as Isaac Watts and Charles Wesley.

“The church has shown its thirst in recent years for songs of substance and hymnology,” says Steve Nicolle, Kingsway director, music and media. “A good melody is not enough, but depth of lyric, Scriptural relevance and poetic beauty are required. This is the unique quality that Stuart brings to the global worshipping church.”

Grounded by his commitment to the local church, when asked about his own songwriting, Townend explains, “It is so important that our lives are built not on our feelings or circumstances, but on the Word of God, and songs can really help us to meditate on and retain truth.

"I know from the correspondence I regularly receive that if you can express in songs the profound truth of the gospel in a poetic yet accessible way, they really can have an impact in people’s lives.”

Introducing Stuart Townend features six songs, a sampling of his poetic lyrics and stirring melodies that have impacted millions. The full track listing follows:

In Christ Alone
Beautiful Saviour
How Deep The Father’s Love
Salvation’s Song
Speak O Lord
The Power Of The Cross

In addition to writing and recording, Townend is a gifted worship leader, musician and seminar speaker. He spends a good part of his year leading worship at major Christian events, doing solo concerts and training emerging worship leaders and songwriters.

He also attends and regularly leads worship at Church of Christ the King (CCK) in Brighton UK, one of the Newfrontiers network of churches headed up by Terry Virgo. Having studied literature at the University of Sussex, it is here he met Caroline, whom he married in 1988, and they now have three children: Joseph, Emma, and Eden.

For more information about Stuart Townend, go to www.stuarttownend.co.uk and www.kingsway.co.uk