Friday FIVE: July 4 - America's First Anthem?

Before “The Star-Spangled Banner,” there was CHESTER, a bold and faith-filled anthem that stirred the hearts of the American colonies during the Revolution. In this Independence Day episode, I take a closer look at William Billings’ iconic tune and share three reasons why it's worth rediscovering. From its patriotic theology to its uniquely American fuging style, CHESTER is a song worth hearing again this July 4. I’ve included clips from both the Robert Shaw recording and Paul Hillier and His Majestie’s Clerkes for your enjoyment.

Here’s a link to listen to the Robert Shaw version on YouTube:

Here’s a link to Paul Hillier & His Majestie’s Clerkes version on YouTube:

Here are the complete lyrics:

Let tyrants shake their iron rod,
And slavery clank her galling chains,
We fear them not! we trust in God!
New England's God forever reigns.

Howe and Burgoyne and Clinton too,
With Prescott and Cornwallis joined,
Together plot our overthrow,
In one infernal league combined.

When God inspired us for the fight,
Their ranks were broke, their lines were forced,
Their ships were shattered in our sight,
Or swiftly driven from our coast.

The foe comes on with haughty stride;
Our troops advance with martial noise,
Their veterans flee before our youth,
And generals yield to beardless boys.

What grateful offering shall we bring?
What shall we render to the Lord?
Loud Hallelujahs let us sing,
And praise his name on every chord.

The Friday FIVE is a weekly five-minute podcast series from Musically Speaking that features five minutes of music commentary, examples, and recommendations from Jarrod Richey.