For traditional churches, introducing contemporary worship songs requires patience and a steady hand. A gradual, “blended” approach usually works best, as long as you choose the songs carefully and wisely.

So, which songs should you introduce first? You can’t go wrong with these 10 — they resonate well with all age groups. Ranking them would be highly subjective and serves no purpose, so I’ve presented them here in alphabetical order.

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Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)
CCLI Song #4768151
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: D Major

“Amazing Grace” is arguably the most well-known hymn in the world. The verse melody of Chris Tomlin's refreshing adaptation is very similar to the hymn, but he wrote a new chorus that highlights the freedom found in God’s amazing grace. The final verse, although part of John Newton’s original poem, is rarely found in hymnals. By including it, Tomlin gives the song a quiet, peaceful ending as opposed to the typical climax of “When we’ve been there ten thousand years…”

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Ancient Words
CCLI Song #2986399
Meter: 3/4
Suggested Key: F Major

This modern hymn is beautiful in its simplicity. The chord progression gives it a slightly Irish flavor, and the lyrics remind us that God’s Word is eternal and life-changing. It can be especially effective right before the sermon.

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Come Thou Fount, Come Thou King
CCLI Song #4775010
Meter: 3/4
Suggested Key: C Major

The verse melody is identical to the familiar hymn “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” With the exception of verse 2, the lyrics are also the same. (No need to wonder what “Here I raise mine Ebenezer” means!) A new chorus was added to give the hymn a contemporary feel.

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Here I Am to Worship
CCLI Song #3266032
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: D Major

Many worship songs fade after a few years, but this one has stood the test of time. The melody has a range of only five notes, and the simple rhythms make it easy to learn. It’s an excellent choice any time of year, but the lyrics are especially suitable for Advent (when contemporary songs are hard to come by).

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How Deep the Father’s Love for Us
CCLI Song #1558110
Meter: 5/4
Suggested Key: D Major

Don’t be intimidated by the 5/4 meter — this song is surprisingly easy to sing. The rhythmic patterns are consistent throughout, the melodic range is very accessible, and the lyrics contain all the richness and depth of a traditional hymn. Try introducing this song when the Lord’s Supper is observed, or during Maundy Thursday / Good Friday services.

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In Christ Alone
CCLI Song #3350395
Meter: 3/4
Suggested Key: D Major

This is the ultimate blended worship song. It has the theological depth and strophic feel of a hymn, yet it also feels contemporary. The melody and rhythms are easy to pick up, regardless of one’s age or musical experience. For variety, try inserting the refrain of “The Solid Rock” between verses 3 and 4 sometimes—especially if the full hymn was sung earlier in the service.

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New Doxology
CCLI Song #5075025
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: D Major

The Doxology is a hallmark of traditional Protestant services. This contemporary version is expanded with additional verses and a new chorus. The melody of the verses is identical to the original Doxology, so the congregation will start singing along right away.

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Speak, O Lord
CCLI Song #4615235
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: C Major

This song has the structured, strophic feel that is characteristic of modern hymns. The melody isn’t quite as simple as other songs on this list, but it’s repetitive enough that people can begin to focus on the meaningful lyrics once they’ve heard it a couple of times. Like “Ancient Words,” it works well right before the sermon.

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10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)
CCLI Song #601635
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: D Major

Every once in a while, a worship song comes along that becomes a classic almost instantly. People love singing this song—especially the chorus. Despite some 2/4 bars and minor rhythmic differences from verse to verse, it’s very easy to learn. It works just as well with piano alone as it does with a full band. When you first introduce it, consider having the congregation sing only the chorus, with the leader singing the verses.

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There Is a Higher Throne
CCLI Song #3994672
Meter: 4/4
Suggested Key: F Major

It’s unfortunate that this song is not more widely known, because it’s a real gem. It’s a soaring, powerful song of praise “to God our King, who reigns on high forevermore.” The rhythmic patterns are simple and consistent, and the melody is relatively easy to learn.

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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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