posted on Dec, 25 2010 @ 03:58 PM
Most of the old hymns were somber as a reflection of the puritanical influence.... respectful, humble, sense of humility in the presence of the
Lord...with no worldly decadence...purely practical.
Further, most of the old southern hymns were meant for an uneducated populace...so all have the same notes and rythmic patterns...just arranged
differently.
Although there are somber hymns...there are some real picker uppers...Bringing in the Sheaves, When the Roll is Called Up Yonder I'll Be there, Let
Us have a Little Talk With Jesus, What A Day That Will Be, Leanin' On The Everlasting Arms...
Oddly enough, many of the old hymns can be sung in time to "chopping a garden" or "hoeing corn." Perfect rythm to rocking in a rockin'
chair....while rockin' a baby to sleep...or shelling beans.
Many of these hymns are so ingrained into some cultures, that you probably have heard them and didn't even know it...especially if you live down here
in Dixie.