Alan Jackson Embraces His Faith Singing “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”

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Alan Jackson Shares His Love For Jesus In Song

Alan Jackson has never shied away from sharing his love for Jesus. He’s channeled that passion into his music on many occasions.

In 2006, Alan Jackson entered the gospel music community when he released his first gospel record. Titled Precious Memories, the album contained recordings of some of Jackson’s favorite hymns.

Alan Jackson shared his love for Jesus on his 2006 album "Precious Memories"
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One of the hymns that Alan Jackson recorded for the album was “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”

The song has been around for centuries and was originally written in 1855 by Irish poet Joseph M. Scriven. He wrote the poem for his mother, who was living in Ireland while he was away in Canada.

Scriven published the poem anonymously. Therefore, he never received full credit for it until the 1880s. Before then, composer and attorney Charles Crozat Converse set the poem to music.

Watch Alan’s Live Performance Of The Hymn At The Ryman

Over the years, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” has become a staple of hymnals. It’s also a beloved favorite of gospel singers and everyday people.

Several noteworthy performers recorded the song before and after it appeared on Jackson’s Precious Memories. Some of these artists include Brad Paisley, Ronnie Milsap, and Glen Campbell.

Jackson filmed a concert special at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville to go along with the material he recorded for Precious Memories. His performance of “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” made it onto the DVD.

You’ll instantly feel at ease as you listen to the soothing sound of Jackson’s voice. There’s just something about this performance that makes it comforting.

Tune in below to see Alan Jackson pour his heart into his performance of “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” We hope this song brings a ray of sunshine into your day.

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