- Amongst his famous songs are ‘count your blessings' written in 1897, ‘higher ground’ and ‘No Not One’, a declaration of God’s unmatched love. Though Oatman never composed the music himself, his lyrics found a home in the melodies of renowned gospel musicians and never sought fame or fortune.
Most of us have interacted with the famous hymn ‘count your blessings’. Do you know the author of the beloved hymn of all time? His name is Johnson Oatman Jr., Born on April 21, 1856, in a family with a deep love for music and faith.
He aspired to be like his father, who was blessed with a powerful singing voice that filled the church halls with melody and devotion.
Though young Johnson admired his father’s gift, he could not be like his dad. He decided to venture into the family business. However, his heart remained drawn to ministry, and he eventually became a Methodist Episcopal minister.
Despite his role in the church, he never took on full-time pastoral duties. Instead, he found another way to serve—through the power of hymn writing, which would later inspire generations.
At the age of 36, Oatman penned his first hymn. Little did he know that this humble beginning would lead to a legacy of over 5,000 hymns, touching the hearts of millions.
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His words carried messages of faith, hope, and gratitude, and soon, they found their way into churches and revival meetings worldwide.
Amongst his famous songs are ‘count your blessings' written in 1897, ‘higher ground’ and ‘No Not One’, a declaration of God’s unmatched love. Though Oatman never composed the music himself, his lyrics found a home in the melodies of renowned gospel musicians and never sought fame or fortune.
On September 25, 1922, he passed away. Listen to the legacy left behind and has been woven into the fabric of Christian worship. Among his pieces, which is your favourite?
