Introduction
In “How Great Thou Art,” The Statler Brothers deliver a deeply moving and powerful performance of one of the most beloved hymns of all time. Originally written by Carl Gustav Boberg and later popularized in the United States by George Beverly Shea and Billy Graham, this song celebrates the majesty and awe of God’s greatness and the wonder of the world He has created. The Statler Brothers’ version of this timeless hymn adds their signature harmonies and heartfelt emotion, creating a rendition that is both reverent and uplifting.
The lyrics of “How Great Thou Art” express the majesty of God and the humbling feeling of recognizing His divine presence in every aspect of life. The song begins with a reflection on the natural world: “O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder / Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made…” The hymn then progresses into an expression of faith and awe at God’s power, culminating in a heartfelt praise for His greatness: “Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee / How great Thou art, how great Thou art.”
The Statler Brothers’ harmonies are nothing short of sublime in this performance. Don Reid takes the lead, his smooth baritone voice filled with deep reverence and emotion, perfectly capturing the worshipful spirit of the song. The rest of the group contributes rich harmonies that create a full, resonant sound, filling the song with vibrancy and grandeur. Their voices come together to form a unified expression of praise, making the song feel like a collective worship experience.
Musically, “How Great Thou Art” features a classic hymn arrangement, with gentle piano, strings, and soft percussion creating a majestic and reflective atmosphere. The music builds gradually, allowing the song’s emotional intensity to grow as it progresses, with each verse leading to a powerful, uplifting chorus. The simplicity of the arrangement enhances the reverent tone, ensuring that the focus remains on the lyrics and the spiritual message they convey.
What makes “How Great Thou Art” so special is not only the timelessness of the song itself but also the sincerity and devotion with which The Statler Brothers perform it. Their rendition is a beautiful tribute to faith, and their harmonious delivery gives the song an extra layer of emotional depth that resonates deeply with listeners. Whether you’ve heard the song a thousand times or are hearing it for the first time, the performance by The Statler Brothers invites you to reflect on the greatness of God and the majesty of His creation.
For Statler Brothers fans, this song is a testament to the group’s ability to tackle powerful themes with grace and respect. For those new to their music, “How Great Thou Art” is a perfect introduction to their musical style, which blends harmony, emotion, and faith seamlessly.
“How Great Thou Art” is more than just a hymn—it’s a celebration of God’s majesty, a tribute to faith, and a reminder of His greatness.
