Rev. Edward Perronet (1721-1792) was an Anglican clergyman with an acidic tongue and deep dissenting beliefs. He often voiced his polarizing theological opinions vociferously (“I was born and I am like to die in the tottering communion of the Church of England; but I despise her nonsense.”) and eventually alienated even his allies. His theological battles have long been forgotten by many but he left behind a lasting legacy – the text to All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name.
The history behind All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name is just as complicated as its author. Gospel Magazine published the first verse of the hymn in their November 1779 edition with the tune Shrubsole (which later became known as Miles Lane.) Five months later, the same magazine printed the complete hymn with the title On the Resurrection, the Lord is King. Four years after that, G. Burder adapted the hymn, altering stanzas and text, titled it The Coronation Hymn, and published it in his Collection. Then three years later, J. Rippon altered the text yet again for his Selection of Hymns. Today’s hymnals combine Perronet’s original text and Rippon’s revisions but, to add more confusion, vary as to which verses and versions they use.
All hail the power of Jesus’ name!
Let angels prostrate fall.
Bring forth the royal diadem,
and crown him Lord of all!
As if the text wasn’t complicated enough, nailing down one tune for this hymn isn’t any easier. In Great Britain, the birthplace of this hymn, All Hail the Power to Jesus’ Name is paired with one of two English-born tunes: Miles Lane (as noted above, formerly Shrubsole) or Diadem. Diadem is also used in U.S. hymnals but it’s more common to pair this hymn with Coronation, a tune by American composer, singing school teacher, and tune-book publisher Oliver Holden (1765-1844).
Since I grew up singing Coronation with All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name, that’s the tune I used when weaving this hymn together with three other regal hymns – O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing, Crown Him with Many Crowns, and Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun – to create the majestic piano arrangement Christ the King Medley. Enjoy!