How To Make Old Hymns Sound Cool Again (3 Tricks)

Can You Sing Old Hymns in a Modern Worship Service?

Yes. 100%. Absolutely.

I've been leading worship for years, and along the way, I’ve found that old hymns work beautifully in modern worship settings. You just have to know how to frame them.

Here are three simple tricks I’ve discovered:

1. Add Musical Hooks

Think of a memorable intro or a simple instrumental turnaround that draws people in. These little melodic ideas help the hymn feel fresh, familiar, and accessible—especially to modern ears.

Example:

“Thou my soul’s glory, joy, and crown…”“Fair are the meadows…”

Let those lines marinate with a simple, hooky motif. It doesn't need to be fancy—it just needs to give some space.

2. Simplify the Chords

Some hymns were written with rich, classical harmonies. That’s great… but sometimes it’s just too much. Don’t be afraid to trim it down.

Take the Doxology, for example. Instead of a bunch of complex passing chords, you can play it with just two:

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow…

It still works. And it gives people space to sing confidently.

3. Bring It Down to a Singable Key

\Many hymns were originally written for choirs or high voices. But if you’re leading a room full of normal people? Lower that key.

Example:

Original: “Teach me some melodious sonnet…” (Up in the clouds! F major)

Better: “Teach me some melodious sonnet…” (Comfortably singable, C major.)

I’ve actually taken all these ideas and put them into a songbook I’m creating, called The Simple Hymnal. It’s filled with beautiful, time-tested hymns—arranged simply, accessibly, and worship-leader friendly.

You can pre-order it now at jeredmckenna.com.