''Amazing Grace'' was originally written in 1772 by John Newton, a former sea captain and slave trader turned well-loved Anglican curate in the British town of Olney. It was published in 1779 as part of a collection of hymns Newton wrote with William Cowper, called Olney Hymns.

"Amazing Grace" is a Christian hymn published in 1779, written in 1772 by English Anglican clergyman and poet John Newton (1725–1807).

Mahalia Jackson (/məˈheɪliə/ mə-HAY-lee-ə; born Mahala Jackson; October 26, 1911 – January 27, 1972) was an American gospel singer. Possessing a contralto voice,[1] she was referred to as "The Queen of Gospel".

He composed the music at age 23 to one of his best-known solos, “I'd Rather Have Jesus,” to words by Mrs. Rhea H. Miller. He also wrote “The Wonder of It All,” “Sing Me A Song of Sharon's Rose,” and “I Love Thy Presence, Lord.”