Discover the timeless beauty and spiritual depth of Southern gospel music with our curated list of the 65 Best Old Southern Hymns. From the moving verses of “Amazing Grace” to the joyful proclamations of “I’ll Fly Away,” these old southern gospel hymns have resonated with generations, offering comfort, hope, and inspiration. Southern hymns are renowned for their heartfelt lyrics and rich musical heritage, making them a cherished part of worship and reflection. Whether you’re seeking to enrich your personal worship experience or find the perfect hymn for a special occasion, our selection features some of the most beloved and influential hymns from the Southern gospel tradition. Explore the stories behind these hymns and experience the enduring power of their melodies and mess.
Here are some of the best old gospel songs that were especially in the American south:
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Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, That saved a wretch like me; I once was lost, but now am found, Was blind, but now I see.
Author: John Newton wrote this hymn in 1772, reflecting on his own dramatic conversion from a life of sin to faith. The hymn has become one of the most beloved and widely recognized Christian hymns, celebrating the redemptive power of grace.
O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.
Author: Carl Boberg wrote this hymn in 1885. Originally a Swedish poem, it was later translated into English by Stuart Hine. The hymn expresses awe and reverence for God’s creation and majesty, and has been cherished in various Christian traditions worldwide.
3. I’ll Fly Away
Some glad morning when this life is o’er, I’ll fly away; To a home on God’s celestial shore, I’ll fly away.
Author: Albert E. Brumley wrote this hymn in 1929. Known for its upbeat, joyful tone, it reflects the hope and anticipation of eternal life with God. The hymn has become a staple in Southern gospel music and is popular in both worship and secular settings.
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, The emblem of suffering and shame; And I love that old cross where the dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain.
Author: George Bennard wrote this hymn in 1912. It focuses on the significance of the cross and the sacrifice of Jesus, symbolizing redemption and faith. The hymn remains a powerful testament to the Christian belief in the centrality of Christ’s crucifixion.
5. Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling
Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, Calling for you and for me; See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching, Watching for you and for me.
Author: Will L. Thompson wrote this hymn in 1880. It invites believers to respond to Christ’s gentle call to repentance and renewal, emphasizing His patience and compassion.
Just as I am, without one plea, But that Thy blood was shed for me, And that Thou bidst me come to Thee, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Author: Charlotte Elliott wrote this hymn in 1835. It is a hymn of invitation and acceptance, expressing the believer’s willingness to come to Christ just as they are, acknowledging His sacrificial love.
7. Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not; As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
Author: Thomas O. Chisholm wrote this hymn in 1923. It celebrates God’s unwavering faithfulness and the constancy of His love and mercy throughout the seasons of life.
8.
I heard an old, old story How a Savior came from glory, How He gave His life on Calvary To save a wretch like me.
Author: E.M. Bartlett wrote this hymn in 1939. It recounts the story of Jesus’ victory over sin and death, celebrating the joy and assurance of salvation.
9. What a Friend We Have in Jesus
What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer!
Author: Joseph M. Scriven wrote this hymn in 1855. It highlights the comfort and support found in Jesus through prayer, emphasizing His role as a compassionate and reliable friend.
10. In the Garden
I come to the garden alone, While the dew is still on the roses, And the voice I hear, falling on my ear, The Son of God discloses.
Author: C. Austin Miles wrote this hymn in 1912. It describes a personal, intimate encounter with Christ in a garden setting, reflecting a deep sense of peace and communion.
11. Blessed Assurance
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.
Author: Fanny J. Crosby wrote this hymn in 1873. It celebrates the certainty and peace found in salvation through Jesus Christ, offering assurance of eternal life.
12. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
Swing low, sweet chariot, Comin’ for to carry me home; Swing low, sweet chariot, Comin’ for to carry me home.
Author: Traditional American spiritual, often attributed to Wallace Willis in the 19th century. This hymn uses the imagery of a chariot to symbolize the hope of escaping earthly troubles and reaching a heavenly home.
13. When We All Get to Heaven
Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, Sing His mercy and His grace; In the mansions bright and blessed, He’ll prepare for us a place.
Author: Eliza E. Hewitt wrote this hymn in 1889. It focuses on the joy and anticipation of heaven, encouraging believers to look forward to eternal life with Jesus.
14. The Solid Rock
My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
Author: Edward Mote wrote this hymn in 1834. It emphasizes the security and steadfastness found in Christ, portraying Jesus as the solid rock of faith.
15. It Is Well with My Soul
When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.
Author: Horatio G. Spafford wrote this hymn in 1873. Written after a personal tragedy, it reflects the peace and comfort found in faith despite life’s difficulties.
16. Just a Closer Walk with Thee
Author: Traditional hymn often attributed to various writers and arrangers. This hymn expresses the desire for a closer relationship with Jesus and seeks His guidance and support in daily life.
17. The King of Love My Shepherd Is
Author: Henry W. Baker wrote this hymn in 1868. It portrays Jesus as the Good Shepherd who lovingly cares for His flock, guiding and protecting them through life’s challenges.
18. He Leadeth Me: O Blessed Thought
Author: Joseph H. Gilmore wrote this hymn in 1862. It celebrates the guidance and faithfulness of God, expressing trust in His direction through life’s journey.
19. Sweet Hour of Prayer
Author: William W. Walford wrote this hymn in 1845. It emphasizes the comfort and solace found in prayer, highlighting the personal connection and strength derived from communicating with God.
20. I Need Thee Every Hour
Author: Annie S. Hawks wrote this hymn in 1872. It reflects a deep dependence on God and acknowledges the constant need for His presence and support throughout the day.
21. My Jesus, I Love Thee
Author: William R. Featherstone wrote this hymn in 1864. It expresses profound love and devotion to Jesus, celebrating His sacrifice and the relationship between the believer and Christ.
22. Wonderful Words of Life
Author: Philip P. Bliss wrote this hymn in 1874. It highlights the power and beauty of God’s Word, inviting believers to embrace and live out the teachings of Scripture.
23. There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood
Author: William Cowper wrote this hymn in 1772. It symbolizes the redemptive power of Christ’s sacrifice and the cleansing of sins through His blood.
24. Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing
Author: Robert Robinson wrote this hymn in 1758. It expresses gratitude for God’s blessings and seeks His guidance and grace in maintaining faithfulness.
25. Love Lifted Me
Author: James Rowe wrote this hymn in 1912. It celebrates the redeeming and uplifting power of God’s love, emphasizing how it rescues and transforms the believer.
26. O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing
Author: Charles Wesley wrote this hymn in 1739. It celebrates the power of praise and the desire to proclaim God’s glory with every available voice.
27. Rock of Ages
Author: Augustus Toplady wrote this hymn in 1776. It depicts Christ as a refuge and rock for believers, emphasizing the security and salvation found in Him.
28. I Am Resolved
Author: Palmer Hartsough wrote this hymn in 1896. It reflects a firm commitment to follow Christ and live out His teachings, regardless of life’s challenges.
29. The Beautiful Garden of Prayer
Author: Traditional hymn, often attributed to various writers. It reflects on the beauty and serenity found in prayer and communion with God.
30. Since Jesus Came into My Heart
Author: Rufus H. McDaniel wrote this hymn in 1914. It expresses the joy and transformation experienced when Jesus enters one’s life.
31. He Lives
Author: Alfred H. Ackley wrote this hymn in 1933. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and the assurance of His continued presence and life.
32. Higher Ground
Author: Johnson Oatman Jr. wrote this hymn in 1898. It expresses a desire to grow in faith and spirituality, seeking to rise above worldly temptations and challenges.
33. Come, Christians, Join to Sing
Author: Christian H. Bateman wrote this hymn in 1843. It invites believers to come together in joyful worship and praise of God.
34. Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus
Author: George Duffield Jr. wrote this hymn in 1858. It calls believers to stand firm in their faith and to actively engage in the spiritual battle.
35. God Will Take Care of You
Author: Civilla D. Martin wrote this hymn in 1904. It reassures believers of God’s faithful provision and care through all of life’s circumstances.
36. At Calvary
Author: William R. Newell wrote this hymn in 1895. It reflects on the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice at Calvary and the grace that flows from it.
37. Blessed Be the Tie That Binds
Author: John Fawcett wrote this hymn in 1782. It celebrates the unity and fellowship of believers in Christ, acknowledging the bond of love and support.
38. Take My Life and Let It Be
Author: Frances R. Havergal wrote this hymn in 1874. It is a prayerful dedication of one’s life to God’s service, asking for His guidance and use of personal gifts.
39. My Faith Looks Up to Thee
Author: Ray Palmer wrote this hymn in 1830. It expresses a deep trust in Christ and a reliance on His grace and guidance for spiritual strength.
40. Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee
Author: Henry J. van Dyke wrote this hymn in 1907. It is a hymn of praise and adoration, celebrating God’s glory and goodness.
41. To God Be the Glory
Author: Fanny J. Crosby wrote this hymn in 1875. It focuses on the greatness of God and the glory due to Him for His wonderful works and salvation.
42. Leaning on the Everlasting Arms
Author: Elisha A. Hoffman wrote this hymn in 1887. It emphasizes the comfort and security found in relying on God’s strength and support.
43. All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name
Author: Edward Perronet wrote this hymn in 1779. It exalts the power and authority of Jesus, calling all to recognize His majesty and sovereignty.
44. O Little Town of Bethlehem
Author: Phillips Brooks wrote this hymn in 1868. It reflects on the nativity of Jesus and the humble birth that changed the world.
45. What a Wonderful Savior
Author: Lloyd C. Smith wrote this hymn in 1927. It celebrates the marvelous qualities and saving grace of Jesus.
46. His Eye Is on the Sparrow
Author: Civilla D. Martin wrote this hymn in 1905. It reassures believers of God’s constant care and watchfulness over them, using the imagery of a sparrow.
47. I Love to Tell the Story
Author: Katherine Hankey wrote this hymn in 1866. It expresses the joy of sharing the message of Jesus and the impact of His story on the believer’s life.
48. I Surrender All
Author: Judson W. Van DeVenter wrote this hymn in 1896. It reflects a complete surrender and dedication to Jesus, committing all aspects of life to Him.
49. Wonderful Grace of Jesus
Author: Haldor Lillenas wrote this hymn in 1918. It celebrates the incredible scope and power of God’s grace through Jesus.
50. Redeemed
Author: Fanny J. Crosby wrote this hymn in 1882. It rejoices in the redemption provided by Christ, emphasizing the joy and freedom found in salvation.
51. A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
Author: Martin Luther wrote this hymn in 1529. It is a powerful declaration of God’s protection and strength against spiritual adversities.
52. Just As I Am
Author: Charlotte Elliott wrote this hymn in 1835. It is an invitation to come to Christ without pretense, accepting His grace as one is.
53. The Strife Is O’er, the Battle Done
Author: Francis P. Robinson wrote this hymn in 1695. It celebrates Christ’s victory over sin and death through His resurrection.
54. Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing
Author: Robert Robinson wrote this hymn in 1758. It praises God as the source of all blessings and expresses a desire for His guidance and grace.
55. Nothing But the Blood
Author: Robert Lowry wrote this hymn in 1876. It emphasizes the cleansing and redemptive power of Jesus’ blood for the forgiveness of sins.
56. Great is thy faithfulness
Author: Thomas O. Chisholm wrote this hymn in 1923. It celebrates God’s unchanging faithfulness and the blessings He provides throughout life.*
57. How Firm a Foundation
Author: Traditional hymn, with various attributed authors. It reassures believers of the strong foundation of faith provided by God’s promises.
58. The Church’s One Foundation
Author: Samuel J. Stone wrote this hymn in 1866. It describes the church as the body of Christ and emphasizes its unity and foundation in Him.
59. There Shall Be Showers of Blessing
Author: James W. Bancroft wrote this hymn in 1883. It is a prayer for spiritual renewal and blessings from God.
60. Take My Life and Let It Be
Author: Frances R. Havergal wrote this hymn in 1874. It is a dedication hymn, asking God to use the believer’s life for His purposes.
61. Trust and Obey
Author: John H. Sammis wrote this hymn in 1887. It emphasizes the importance of trusting God and obeying His commands as a response to His love.
62. Wonderful Words of Life
Author: Philip P. Bliss wrote this hymn in 1874. It highlights the beauty and power of the Word of God, encouraging believers to embrace its teachings.
63. His Eye Is on the Sparrow
Author: Civilla D. Martin wrote this hymn in 1905. It reassures believers of God’s constant care and watchfulness over them, using the imagery of a sparrow.
64. Footsteps of Jesus
Author: Mary B. Slade wrote this hymn in 1871. It reflects the desire to follow Jesus’ example and live according to His teachings.
65. All Creatures of Our God
Author: Originally written by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1225 as part of the “Canticle of the Sun.” The hymn was later adapted into English by William Henry Draper in 1919. It is a call to all of creation to praise and glorify God, celebrating the beauty and majesty of the natural world as a reflection of divine creation.
George Hendricks is the founder and managing editor of Godsverse.org. He has written and published over 200 skit reviews, church resource guides, and Bible study articles. With a background in data-driven content strategy and digital publishing, George built Godsverse into one of the most comprehensive collections of church skit reviews and printable scripts online. When he's not writing, he's researching what churches actually need and figuring out how to deliver it.
