Program notes
Published in 1779, Amazing Grace is one of the most famous Christian hymns in the English-speaking world, whose words are attributed to John Newton. Although he started his career as an English mariner and slave trader, John Newton later became a pastor and Anglican minister who fought militantly for the abolition of slavery. This documentary recounts the history of this beloved hymn, traditionally sung to the tune of New Britain.
God's Greatest Hits is a Canadian documentary series that explores the history of some of the best-known spirituals in the world. From Christian hymns to gospel songs, each episode presents information from historical archives and features interviews with music critics, musicians and scholars.
Photo: Blind Boys of Alabama