About The Song
Remember those Sunday mornings, the gentle hum of hymns filling the air, a sense of peace and reverence settling over you? Dolly Parton’s How Great Thou Art evokes that very feeling, a timeless hymn reborn with her signature warmth and powerful vocals. Released in 1971 on her album Golden Streets of Glory, this song transcends genres, offering a heartfelt tribute to the majesty and wonder of creation.
Imagine yourself transported back to a simpler time, perhaps your own childhood, where faith played a central role in everyday life. Church bells ringing, the familiar comfort of hymns – these are the very elements Dolly captures in the opening lines of How Great Thou Art: “Oh Lord my God, when in awesome wonder / Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made.” It’s a declaration of awe and gratitude, a reminder of the vastness and beauty of the universe.
Dolly’s voice is the perfect instrument for this song. Her powerful vocals soar on the high notes, conveying a sense of reverence, while her softer tones bring a touch of intimacy to the lyrics. She avoids operatic flourish, instead delivering the song with a sincerity that resonates with listeners of all faiths.
The lyrics themselves are a testament to the enduring power of this classic hymn. Lines like “The stars declare Thy glory / And worlds Thy might proclaim” paint a majestic picture of creation, reminding us of the divine power behind it all.
While the song celebrates God’s grandeur, it also expresses a sense of personal connection. “I see the stars and I hear the rolling thunder / Thy power thru all the universe displayed” – these lyrics suggest a personal awe and wonder at the divine.
How Great Thou Art is more than just a religious song; it’s a testament to the human capacity for wonder.** It reminds us to pause and appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world around us, a sentiment that resonates with believers and non-believers alike.