Texas musician brings modern twist to classic hymns

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MIDLOTHIAN—Although Christian recording artist Jimmy Needham did not grow up singing hymns in church, he wants to make up for lost time while also encouraging young worshippers to latch onto timeless truths.

jimmy needham400“I wasn’t raised in a church and hadn’t heard most of these hymns until college,” Needham said. “When I heard some of these hymns for the first time, it was such an eye-opening experience for me. Over the past few years, I’ve been exposed to more of these great hymns, and they have had a huge impact on my walk with the Lord.”

His latest album, The Hymns Sessions, Vol. 1, available through digital outlets and at his upcoming concerts, brings a distinctive twist to classic hymns including “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” “Rock of Ages,” “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” and “How Great Thou Art.”

jimmy needham cd300By adding a modern approach and updated style, Needham hopes to attract young worshippers and help them find new meaning in traditional hymns.

As Needham travels across the country, he maintains a busy schedule performing concerts and leading worship for ministry events. He especially enjoys ministering to youth and college students.

“I never heard the gospel until I was a sophomore in high school,” Needham said. “A friend took the time to share what it meant to have Jesus as your Savior. It was then that God opened my eyes to his truth, and I’ve been walking with Christ ever since.”

After graduating from Texas A&M University, Needham planned to become a history teacher. However, after receiving a phone call from Inpop Records, Needham felt God leading him to share the gospel through songs.

“God really changed the plans and the direction where I was heading,” Needham said.  “I’m incredibly grateful for what God has done and his faithfulness.”

In addition to performing concerts and writing songs, Needham serves as the artist in residence at Stonegate Church in Midlothian, a Baptist General Convention of Texas-affiliated congregation. This fall, he will promote the hymns project on his national “The Guy, Guitar & Gospel Tour.”


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“Today, I’m more aware of my desperate need for Jesus in everything that I do and in every circumstance that’s thrown my way,” he said. “That’s why I really want people to realize a relationship with Jesus is so satisfying and fulfilling. Every other pursuit or effort trying to make our lives better seems dull compared to life in his presence.”


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