May 2008
Worship Songs — What Exactly Are They?	Show Menu

Worship songs are frequently mentioned in recent discussions and writings about modern church music. But what exactly are worship songs? The Editor asked at a Committee meeting for a clarification of the term. It seems that there is no specific definition of a worship song, but they do have several characteristics that traditional hymns do not. So, for what they’re worth, here are four of the contributions received. Editor.

Most worship songs have an easy-to-sing chorus, and sometimes the verses can be difficult rhythmically. It is usual for there to be a melody and accompaniment, because most worship songs are composed for the guitar and then arranged for keyboard.

They are like folk songs, the tune or rhythm changes as one group/person passes the song on and it can be hard to find the definitive version. Hymns are usually in four-part harmony, songs are much simpler although they eventually tend to be arranged for choirs if they have the longevity. Worship songs that are well written and have good lyrics will stand the test of time but there are many that will not.

The Church Hymnal contains a number of hymns that could be termed as worship songs. Have a look at these hymns:

  2 Faithful One
 18 Lord I come before your throne
141 These are the days of Elijah
223 Hosanna in the highest
448 The feast is ready
574 I give you all the honour
582 Jesus, all for Jesus
640 Purify my heart

Any song can be a worship song, if it is written or performed for the glory of God, or listened to for the purpose of exalting God. Good worship songs have certain characteristics which enable God’s people to worship Him.

1. The lyrics of a worship song should be clearly related to biblical truth and a scriptural world view. It should contain some aspect of who God is and/or who we are in Christ, and it should be expressed in a way that everyone can understand.
2. Worship songs should be singable.
3. Worship songs intentionally and successfully exalt God over against our own creativity. While we want always to be seeking fresh ways of communicating eternal truths, there is a level beyond which literature cannot rise if it is to be good hymnody.

Judging from occasional conversations with colleagues, it seems that many organists are quite challenged at times when seeking to provide effective organ accompaniments to some so-called 'worship songs'. Certainly, this has been my own experience. The music for worship songs often demonstrates a rhythmic complexity that is better supported by a small band, which might include percussion. Keyboard accompaniments vary in style and difficulty and I have found it helpful to consult a wide range of hymn books so as to identify accompaniments with which I am comfortable. The arrangements by James Whitbourn in BBC Songs of Praise (BBC Books, 1997) are especially good. They are written in a minimalist musical style, are easy to play and clearly have the organ in mind.

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