Let me begin by saying that I am not a musician! The books that I am recommending are not related to the technical aspects of music, but rather to the use of great songs and the stories behind them. I do love music and have a collection of hymn books in our home. However, I am afraid that very often we know the songs but little about the history of the songs or the people who wrote them.
These five books have been a welcome addition to my library. I hope they will be an encouragement to you as they have been to me…
Al Smith’s Treasury of Hymn Histories by Alfred B. Smith (Al Smith, “Mr. Singspiration,” was a great blessing to me personally. This volume tells the story behind 115 great hymns and gospel songs. It is a rich source of illustration and inspiration.)
A Romance of Song and Soul Winning by Helen C. Alexander and J. Kennedy Maclean (This books tells the story of one of the greatest congregational song leaders in history, Charles M. Alexander. In it you will discover the connection to revival, evangelism, and great evangelistic singing.)
Fanny Crosby by Bernard Ruffin (There are several biographies of Fanny Crosby. This volume is a part of the Heroes of the Faith collection and gives an overview of the life of one of the most prolific hymn writers that ever lived.)
Amazing Grace by John Pollock (Pollock is a great biographer. Read all of his works if possible. In this book you will read the amazing story of the man who wrote the most beloved hymn ever written, John Newton.)
How Sweet The Sound by George Beverly Shea (Shea was greatly used of God as a music director and soloist. He shares the story behind a host of favorite hymns and songs, along with devotional thoughts connected to each. You will enjoy this book.)
What books have been a blessing to you in the area of music?
Read each article in this series:
5 Books To Read About Jesus (And One Bonus)
5 Books To Read For Bible Study
5 Books To Read On Prayer + 1 I’m Reading Now
5 Books To Read On The Holy Spirit
5 Books To Read On Great Christians
5 Books To Help With Your Personal Devotions
5 Books To Read On Living A Victorious Christian Life
5 Books To Read When You Are Having A Hard Time
5 Books To Read On Church Ministry
5 Books To Read To Help Young People
5 Books To Read As Commentaries
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Bro. Scott,
Thanks for the “5 Books…” for the last several weeks. I’ve enjoyed seeing what you are recommending for each category. Then I get excited to see some here & there that I’ve read or already own and am planning to read. Each list has been a help & encouragement.
I wanted to make a couple of suggestions for categories. Something to think about.
5 Books That are Motivating
5 Books to Read to Children
5 Books to Read for Marriage
5 Books to Read on Prophecy
And I’d be interested what 5 books you have read for fun.
A side category –
5 Places to buy good books
5 Ways to earn extra money for more books
5 ways to keep my wife from knowing I bought more books.
Lol. Thanks again
These are great ideas! I will give some thought to them. Thanks for taking time to read the posts. God bless you my friend.