Who wrote the hymn 'O happy day'?
Clergyman Philip Doddridge. wrote the hymn 'O happy day' in 1755 and it soon became a popular hymn for baptisms. Its musical history has been more chequered though. It was originally set to a 1704 melody by J. A. Freylinghausen but by mid-19th century it had been given a new melody by Edward F. Rimbault, who also added the now famous chorus which formed the basis of the Edwin Hawkins singers's 20th century recording - sung to another different melody. Today it is is regarded as a gospel song classic and has appeared in quite a few Hollywood films, including Sister Act 2, Nutty Professor II: The Klumps, and License to Wed.
Buy the Edwin Hawkins Singers' recording from Amazon
What are the lyrics to 'O happy day'?
O happy day, that fixed my choice On Thee, my Savior and my God! Well may this glowing heart rejoice, And tell its raptures all abroad. * Refrain: Happy day, happy day, When Jesus washed my sins away! He taught me how to watch and pray, And live rejoicing every day: Happy day, happy day, When Jesus washed my sins away! *
O happy bond, that seals my vows To Him Who merits all my love! Let cheerful anthems fill His house, While to that sacred shrine I move. *
’Tis done, the great transaction’s done!— I am the Lord’s and He is mine; He drew me and I followed on; Charmed to confess the voice divine. *
Now rest, my long-divided heart, Fixed on this blissful center, rest; Here have I found a nobler part; Here heav’nly pleasures fill my breast. *
High heav’n, that heard the solemn vow, That vow renewed shall daily hear, Till in life’s latest hour I bow And bless in death a bond so dear.