The author behind Amazing Grace
Newton wrote the hymn’s words, first published in Olney Hymns in 1779. His life included participation in the slave trade and later public opposition to it.
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PEOPLE WORTH GETTING TO KNOW
John Newton
Anglican minister and hymn writer
A CLOSER LOOK
The story behind it.
The writer of “Amazing Grace,” whose life included participation in the slave trade and later opposition to it.
A song with a later musical life
The words preceded the tune now most commonly associated with them. The history separates the author’s text from later musical settings and performances.
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Background & references (opens in a new tab)Source for John Newton: Background & references.
Sources for this closer look
Background & references (opens in a new tab)A GOOD PLACE TO BEGIN
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Song
Amazing Grace
Words by John Newton · first published 1779
A hymn of grace, recognition, and transformation, carried through many musical traditions.
Explore this work →Sources & credits
Introductions are grounded in the sources below. Collection notes and reading prompts provide an editorial starting point; personal opinions are identified in the collection’s content.
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