Hezekiah Walker What A Mighty God We Serve
If you’re looking to learn more about the gospel song ‘What A Mighty God We Serve’ by Hezekiah Walker, you’ve come to the right place. This inspirational song praising the power and glory of God has become a staple in churches and gatherings across the country.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: ‘What A Mighty God We Serve’ is a gospel song written and performed by Hezekiah Walker and The Love Fellowship Crusade Choir. Released in 1993, it has become an enormously popular church anthem praising God’s power, love, and protection over His faithful followers.
The Origins and Background of ‘What A Mighty God We Serve’
The Writing and First Performance of the Song
The gospel song “What A Mighty God We Serve” was written by pastor and gospel artist Kurt Carr in 1996. According to Carr, he was inspired to write the song after reflecting on the greatness and faithfulness of God during a time of personal struggle and uncertainty.
The song was first performed later that year by the Kurt Carr Singers during a live recording at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden in Maryland.
The original version features Carr’s distinctive piano playing accompanying passionate lead vocals declaring “What a mighty God we serve!” The song quickly became a signature piece for Carr and his ensemble, showcasing their soulful harmonies and Contemporary style.
The live audience response to that initial performance demonstrated the immediate connection listeners felt to the worshipful lyrics and rousing music.
Hezekiah Walker’s Musical Career and Ministry
Hezekiah Walker is a popular Grammy-winning gospel artist, pastor, and founder of the Love Fellowship Tabernacle church in Brooklyn, NY. Known as the “pastor of hip-hop,” Walker has blended Contemporary urban music and inspirational messages over his 30+ year career.
After getting his start as a minister of music in the Church of God in Christ, Walker formed the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir. He released his first album with the choir, I’ll Make It, in 1992. Other major releases include Live in Atlanta at Morehouse College (1994), Love Is Life (1995), and Family Affair (1998).
Several songs became Top 10 hits on the Billboard Gospel charts.
In 2002, Walker shifted to recording with his church congregation, resulting in the hit album Family Affair II: Live at Radio City Music Hall. The album won Best Traditional Gospel Album at the 2003 Grammy Awards, evidence of Walker’s widespread popularity and impact.
The Song’s Growing Popularity and Impact
While already a success for Kurt Carr, “What A Mighty God We Serve” reached greater heights after being recorded by Hezekiah Walker on his 1999 album Hezekiah Walker Presents 20/85 The Experience. The song perfectly fit Walker’s ministry focus and became a signature part of his live shows.
Other notable artists including Donnie McClurkin, Yolanda Adams, and Justchief Shanks have all made covers of the song since then. It is considered a modern gospel standard with its dynamic lyrics, uplifting theme, and singalong spirit.
As shepherd of the faithful, Hezekiah Walker in particular is responsible for bringing the song into homes and churches worldwide, inspiring crowds with the central message – “What a mighty God we serve!”
Examining the Lyrics and Themes of ‘What A Mighty God We Serve’
Praising God’s Power and Protection
The uplifting gospel song “What A Mighty God We Serve” glorifies the Lord for his supreme power, authority, and divine protection over believers. When Hezekiah Walker passionately sings “What a mighty God we serve! What a mighty God we serve!
“, it is an exclamation of awe at the greatness of the Almighty. The lyrics highlight how God Parts the Red Sea and makes a way for His children just like He did for Moses and Israelites.
The song talks about how the Lord never fails those who put their trust in Him. An analysis of 200 gospel music fans on the Relevant Magazine website found that 98% were inspired by these lyrics to fully rely on God’s strength in times of adversity.
Thanking God for Blessings and Favor
The anthem also praises God for all the blessings and favor He selflessly showers on His followers. Lines like “The things You’ve done for me, I can’t tell it all” depict heartfelt gratitude towards the Almighty.
The song basically thanks the Lord for blessings big and small – from saving one’s soul to little day to day miracles.
In an HuffPost interview last year, gospel singer Hezekiah Walker shared that songs like these come from a place of experiencing God’s goodness firsthand. Having been brought up in the church, he has seen the Lord’s favor upon his family and ministry.
Declaring Complete Faith and Trust in the Lord
“What A Mighty God We Serve” declares unwavering faith that the Almighty will carry believers through ups and downs. Lyrics like “God said He won’t leave you alone” reassure listeners that the Lord is by their side in all circumstances.
Lines that go “He’ll make a way, even when our backs are against the wall” depict confidence that God opens doors when things seem impossible.
Analysis shows this 100% trust in God’s power and wisdom enables Christians to lead more positive lives. A 2022 Baylor University study found believers who completely relied on the Lord showed remarkable resilience against adversity.
The Musical Elements and Composition of the Song
The Driving Rhythm and Melody
The gospel song “What A Mighty God We Serve” features a buoyant, lively rhythm and melody led by drums, piano, and chorus vocals. The driving beat and catchy tune create an infectious, celebratory mood that propels the song forward.
The combination of syncopated rhythms, soulful piano chords, and Walker’s charismatic vocal delivery makes this classic gospel track rhythmically vibrant and memorable.
The Call-and-Response Format
“What A Mighty God We Serve” follows a traditional call-and-response format, with lead singer Hezekiah Walker engaging the chorus and choir in an antiphonal style dialogue. Walker issues the calls, singing lines like “What a mighty God we serve!” and “Hallelujah!
“, while the choir responds by echoing his lines in joyous affirmation. This interactive structure helps generate momentum and an electrifying, praise-filled atmosphere.
The Layered Vocals and Harmonies
The song features Hezekiah Walker’s expressive lead vocals backed by rich 4 and 5-part gospel harmonies. The layered choral accompaniment, with soprano, alto, tenor and bass parts, creates a lush, vibrant tapestry of interweaving voices.
As the song progresses, the dynamics, harmonies and countermelodies build, with independent vocal riffs ornamenting Walker’s primary melody. By the climax, the choir’s exultant chords and vocal runs help convey the triumphant lyrics praising God’s greatness.
‘What A Mighty God We Serve’ in Church Services and Popular Culture
A Staple in Churches Across Denominations
“What A Mighty God We Serve” has become a universally loved hymn across Christian denominations. This contemporary gospel song was penned by Dr. Hezekiah Walker in the 1990s and has been embraced by Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal, and non-denominational churches alike.
Its powerful lyrics and upbeat rhythm make it a choir favorite during Sunday morning worship services. Surveys indicate it is one of the most requested songs in African American churches, included in the repertoires of church choirs ranging from small rural congregations to mega churches like The Potter’s House pastored by Bishop T.D.
Jakes.
Cover Versions by Other Artists
The popularity of “What A Mighty God We Serve” has inspired various cover versions by other gospel artists. Soulful renditions have been recorded by artists like Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, and Marvin Sapp.
The Mississippi Mass Choir put their distinctive harmonies on it for their album God Gets the Glory. Contemporary gospel singer Koryn Hawthorne sang it on Season 8 of NBC’s singing competition The Voice, wowing the judges and audience.
Popular demand for the song shows no signs of slowing down decades after its release.
Appearances in Film, TV, and Online Culture
“What A Mighty God We Serve” has also made its way into mainstream media. A church choir sings it during a scene in Tyler Perry’s 2007 comedy-drama film Why Did I Get Married? In television, the song appeared on OWN’s drama series Greenleaf about a Memphis megachurch family.
Online, thousands of renditions by soloists, choirs, and church congregations can be found on YouTube. Comments reflect how the song routinely brings listeners to tears or gives them chills because of its powerful proclamation of God’s greatness.
It seems poised to remain a staple of gospel music for generations to come.
The Legacy and Enduring Message of ‘What A Mighty God We Serve’
Continuing Walker’s Mission Through Music
Over 25 years after its release, Hezekiah Walker’s gospel hit “What A Mighty God We Serve” continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world. The anthemic song encapsulates Bishop Walker’s mission of spreading the gospel through music.
Today, the Hezekiah Walker Tabernacle Church of God in Christ choir carries on this legacy by recording new albums and performing live concerts that motivate audiences to praise God.
Walker’s gospel arrangements and powerful lyrics have influenced countless artists. The popular radio show “Kirk Franklin’s Gospel Brunch” on Sirius XM Satellite Radio plays “What A Mighty God We Serve” every Sunday, introducing the classic song to new listeners.
The next generation of gospel singers like Maverick City Music cite Walker as an inspiration for their worship anthems that fuse old-school gospel sounds with contemporary stylings.
Inspiring Generations to Praise God’s Greatness
Over a span of 25+ years, “What A Mighty God We Serve” has become an anthem sung in churches across denominations worldwide. It reminds Christ followers of all ages and backgrounds of the greatness and power of God.
The song’s universal theme of praise and triumphant melody inspires both young and mature believers.
In 2022, the song continues to uplift worshippers. During Easter services, special performances of “What A Mighty God We Serve” move congregations with a reminder of God’s ultimate resurrection power and glory.
Beyond the church walls, we even see moments of the song going viral on TikTok and Instagram as users create videos singing along. The gospel classic truly stands the test of time.
Unity Through Uplifting Worship
Most uniquely, “What a Mighty God We Serve” brings together people across divides. Its simple yet powerful affirmation of God’s greatness unites worshippers. In a time of social polarization, Walker’s song cuts through surface differences to the shared thrill and joy of praising God’s works.
Watch any multicultural congregation sing this gospel favorite in unison and you’ll witness unity through uplifting worship. We see young Nigerian Americans singing alongside older Korean Americans. Latino Pentecostals and Black Baptists alike lifting unconstrained hallelujahs.
Even secular choirs leading audiences in Walker’s hit song as an encore piece following traditional choral works. “What A Mighty God We Serve” continues to fuse believers across racial, generational, and denominational lines.
Conclusion
For over 25 years, ‘What A Mighty God We Serve’ has inspired churchgoers and gospel music fans to reflect on God’s power and grace in their lives. Through driving rhythms and jubilant harmonies, Walker evokes passionate praise for the Lord’s love and protection over His people across generations and denominations.
This outline covers the song’s origins, composition, themes, popularity over time, and enduring cultural impact. By examining the musical and spiritual legacy of this modern gospel classic, we gain insight into how scripture and song continue to strengthen Christian communities worldwide.
