Sudden changes usually don’t go over well in church life, and music is no exception. If your church sings mostly hymns, introducing contemporary worship songs will require patience and a steady hand. A gradual, “blended” approach usually works best, as long as you choose the songs carefully and wisely.

Consider starting with these time-tested classics from the last several decades. They don’t require a band, and the rhythms are not too complex. They can soften the transition between traditional hymns and more recent worship songs. Ranking them would be highly subjective and serves no purpose, so I’ve presented them here in alphabetical order.

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As the Deer
CCLI Song #1431
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: C Major

This gentle ballad works well before or after a prayer. The opening lyrics are based directly on Psalm 42:1, but the whole song evokes themes found throughout the Psalms. It is a prayer of longing for a deeper relationship with God.

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Give Thanks
CCLI Song #20285
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: F

Although this song is often sung during the Thanksgiving season, it’s appropriate any time of year. After all, gratitude is always in season! The verse and chorus are each sung twice in a row, making it very easy to learn. The inclusion of a flatted seventh chord adds some harmonic interest. Because repeats are built in, singing it once or twice through will suffice.

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Glorify Thy Name
CCLI Song #1383
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: Bb Major

This chorus is short and easy to learn. With the exception of the first word of each verse, the lyrics are exactly the same. The melody rises gradually, symbolizing our praises ascending to heaven.

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He Is Exalted
CCLI Song #17827
Meter: 6/8
Suggested Key: F Major

Twila Paris wrote several worship songs in the 1980s that became timeless classics. “He Is Exalted” has a joyous, celebratory feel that works well as an opening song. Because it’s short and moves fast, consider pairing it with a hymn in the same key (putting the hymn first). Sing it twice through, and then repeat the last line as a tag.

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Lamb of God
CCLI Song #16787
Meter: 3/4
Suggested Key: C Major

Here’s another classic song from Twila Paris. “Lamb of God” is perfect for communion, Holy Week, or anytime Christ’s sacrifice is being emphasized. Although the chorus melody moves around a lot, it’s not difficult to learn. Try introducing it as a vocal solo or choral anthem a couple of weeks before letting the congregation sing it.

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Majesty
CCLI Song #1527
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: G Major

This is a strong opening song, especially when paired with a stately hymn in the same key, such as “God of Grace and God of Glory” or “Joyful, Joyful, we Adore Thee.” Sing it once through, repeat back to “So exalt…” and then repeat from “Jesus who died…” as a final tag.

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More Precious Than Silver
CCLI Song #11335
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: F Major

This simple chorus was inspired by Psalm 119:72 and Proverbs 3:13–15. Use it as a prayer response or pair it with a prayerful hymn in the same key, such as “My Jesus, I Love Thee” or “Nearer, My God, to Thee.” There is actually a verse/bridge for this song, but the chorus is typically sung by itself.

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Shine on Us
CCLI Song #1754646
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: C Major

A recurring phrase found in Psalm 80 is the main inspiration behind this powerful song. It is especially effective as a prayer response. For a dramatic effect, modulate to D Major (via G/A → A) before the last verse.

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Step by Step
CCLI Song #696994
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: F Major

This chorus is part of a longer song called “Sometimes by Step” (Strasser/Mullins), but all you need is the chorus. The rhythm, although slightly syncopated in spots, is not difficult at all. It makes a nice closing song, encouraging people to follow God’s leading during the upcoming week. Sing the main chorus twice through before proceeding to the final section that repeats “And I will follow You all of my days.”

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There Is a Redeemer
CCLI Song #11483
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: D Major

Gratitude for our redemption is the main theme of this classic worship song. The straightforward nature of the melody and rhythm makes it easy to learn and sing. It is particularly well-suited for communion, Holy Week, or Thanksgiving services, but you can use it anytime.

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Of course, many other songs are appropriate for a blended worship setting. This list is simply intended to provide a “safe” starting point to introduce contemporary songs without alienating half your congregation.

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