Introduction
While country music legend Alan Jackson delivered the powerful rendition many know today, “I Love To Tell The Story” boasts a rich history long before gracing the radio waves. Its roots trace back to a poem penned by Katherine Hankey, a 19th-century English evangelist. Titled “Tell the Old, Old Story,” the verses expressed the joy of sharing the gospel and the unwavering belief in Jesus’s love and sacrifice.
The poem found new life when composer William G. Fischer crafted a heartwarming melody. This melodic transformation breathed life into Hankey’s words, creating the hymn we recognize today. “I Love To Tell The Story” quickly gained popularity within church congregations, finding its place in hymnals and sung by countless voices.
Fast forward to 2005, and Alan Jackson, known for his traditional country sound and gospel influences, decided to include the beloved hymn on his album “Precious Memories.” Jackson’s smooth baritone and the song’s simple yet powerful arrangement resonated with country music fans, introducing the hymn to a new generation.
“I Love To Tell The Story” transcended genre and religious boundaries. Jackson’s version became a staple at his concerts, a testament to the song’s enduring message of faith and the universal power of storytelling. Whether sung in a grand cathedral or a local honky-tonk, “I Love To Tell The Story” continues to touch hearts and spread its message of love and hope.