Classic Red-Back Hymnal

Rooted in the Shape-Note Tradition
The hymnal’s influence traces back to the singing schools of the 18th and 19th centuries, where instructors traveled from town to town teaching shape-note music. This system enabled worshippers to sight-read and join in four-part harmony, making congregational singing accessible to all. Out of this fertile ground grew the gospel songs and convention traditions that deeply shaped southern worship—and found their way into the Church Hymnal.

A Hymnal That Made History
On November 17, 1951, readers of the Church of God Evangel were introduced to “The New Church Hymnal.” Advertised as beautiful, durable, and filled with “everything of real value to you in your general services,” the hymnal’s first printing of 25,000 copies sold out in just five months. By its 75th anniversary, millions had been printed, and the maroon edition with gold embossed lettering had earned its enduring nickname: the Red Back Hymnal.

A Legacy of Gospel Publishing
Published by Tennessee Music and Printing Company, the music division of today’s Pathway Press, the hymnal was edited by Otis McCoy along with V. B. Ellis, Zeno C. Tharp, and S. W. Denson. Their careful curation drew from the rich catalog of evangelical gospel songs, traditional hymns by writers such as Isaac Watts and Charles Wesley, beloved choruses, Christmas carols, and even patriotic selections. The result was a collection of more than 400 songs that resonated across denominational lines and helped establish the Church Hymnal as one of the greatest success stories in gospel music publishing.