The People Behind the Songs

|PIC1|Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name

Familiar with these lyrics?

Of course you are. Not only was "Blessed Be Your Name" named Worship Song of the Year at the 2005 GMA (Gospel Music Association) Music Awards, but it was recorded by gospel legends Michael W Smith, Newsboys, and Rebecca St James.

The impact of the song has brought thousands to worship and to experience the powerful presence of God, and has been sung all around the world.

So who is the original, creative force behind this song?

Sitting casually in a chair in down-to-earth attire last week was Matt Redman, the humble British worship leader and the man behind one of praise and worship's most famous songs.

He has expressed in a recent interview that he likes "playing with words" and digging into different anagrams.

With his unique talents, Matt has world renowned praise songs like "Heart of Worship", "Once Again", and "Thank You for the Blood" firmly under his belt, and has now released a new set of songs in his new project Beautiful News, revealing 12 tracks that also have the potential to become world hits.

Indeed, as thousands of congregants in churches from around the world sing these popular worship songs, many bring up the 'ultimate' questions: Who is the writer of this song? Is there a story behind it?

I've been to several churches around the world, and although many know songs like "All I Once Held Dear" and "Heart of Worship", they don't know who the original writer is.

I think it's crucial for the songwriter to be known. As seen in Matt's website under 'reflections', there is a story that explains the inspirational motive behind each song he has written in his latest album, which helps us connect with the deeper meaning behind each song. It gives listeners a more personal feel.

Another talented British singer, Graham Kendrick ("All I Once Held Dear"), said in a recent interview with Christian Today: "Many people there know my songs like 'Shine Jesus Shine', but I don't think many people know me."

It's time we explore who the writers are behind our favourite songs that we hum along to and sing at our own church, and see where the songs originate from.

Afterall, these songwriters are ordinary people - just like us.




Courtney Lee
Christian Today, Culture Editor