Hallelujah! The History of Contemporary Worship in 100 Songs

I have had the honour of being invited by book publishers SPCK to write a book about 100 songs that have helped shape Contemporary Worship over the past 50 years, from How Great Thou Art to The Blessing. 
 
Every song has a story, and I have endeavoured to relate the origins and the context as well as amplifying the anthems that have come from the global church. 
 
I have also been especially honoured to have had the foreword written by Graham Kendrick, and the afterword by Darlene Zschech – two Generals of worship – the book is worth buying for these two sections alone! Huge thanks also to all the song publishers and songwriters, as well as CCLI who have supported this project.  
 
Released on 19th March, the book features a QR code which has a link to the chord chart and a YouTube video for each song. 
 
There is a special discount offer at SPCK – use LES25 to get 25% off!  
 
The songs are the stars!

From How Great Thou Art to The Blessing, Hallelujah invites you on a journey through 100 of the world’s most beloved worship songs - songs that have shaped church life and personal devotion over the last fifty years.

Inside, you'll find the full lyrics to each song, along with the remarkable stories behind them: how they were written, what inspired them, and why they continue to resonate with worshippers around the world.
Whether you're rediscovering old favourites or exploring new ones, this book will deepen your appreciation for the songs that move your soul.

Each song entry also features a QR code, giving you instant access to:

- Classic and contemporary performances on YouTube
- Printable chord charts for every song, perfect for musicians and worship leaders 

More than a songbook, Hallelujah is a companion for anyone who wants to understand, play, and live the worship they love.

 

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Endorsements

"What an honour it is to written afterword and a personal note of thanks to the extraordinary author of this book. I am among the many who are so grateful for the ministry of Les Moir. Les has devoted his life to getting countless melodies and songs describing God's worth heard and experienced." – Darlene Zschech

"Every song in this book carries a story, a moment of surrender, a cry of praise, a melody that has shaped the Church's voice of worship. As you read, the majesty of Jesus will be revealed to you in a fresh way, compelling you to praise and continue bringing glory to the One who is forever worthy." – Kari Jobe Carnes

"For years, Les Moir has been a faithful champion of worship music and worship leaders. This book is a beautiful reminder of the songs that have shaped the Church, and the ways God has shown His faithfulness through generations. Thank you, Les, for bringing this history to life." – Michael W. Smith

"I know how passionate Les is about seeing worship music flood the world and in turn flood people’s hearts. God still seems to be using songs to help us connect to our creator and this formative book talks about some of those musical prayers that have touched the world." – Martin Smith

"There's no one better equipped than Les Moir to guide us through a book like this. As a music visionary, gifted A and R man and friend to countless worship leaders and songwriters Les has spent decades in this field. He has had a front row seat to many music-infused works of God in the global Church - and now, through this excellent book, we get that same privilege too." – Matt Redman

"This is a brilliant and fascinating reflection on the stories behind 100 significant modern worship songs. It encourages thanksgiving for what has been and will inspire an emerging generation to carry the baton for writing God- inspired songs to release the Church in praise and worship." – Tim Hughes

"Les Moir has given his life to lifting up the name of Jesus. It was my joy and privilege to work with him for years and see that passion shine in and through him." – Sheila Walsh

"There’s no one more qualified to write about the history of what has been called the Modern Worship movement than Les Moir. He has been part of every aspect of the process - writing, leading, recording, producing, marketing, and mentoring other worship leaders for over four decades... Read this book and rejoice in what God has done – from generation to generation." – Paul Baloche

"Les embodies a rare consistency—childlike wonder paired with seasoned wisdom. For decades, he has been a true sage and scribe of worship moments that have touched the world. This book is a gift from a true guide and friend." – Israel Houghton

"As I looked through the list of songs and heard the compelling stories Les Moir has compiled for this book, I was taken back to the time and the place when I first heard each song. I was impacted then and after singing many of these songs hundreds of times, I am still impacted today by the powerful lyrics and beautiful melodies." – Don Moen

"Les Moir’s Hallelujah! is more than an historical account of 100 worship songs - it is a heartfelt exploration of the divine-human dialogue. . .. Les has not only chronicled influential anthems of faith but also illuminated the sacred soil from which they grew—seasons of revival, struggle, and intimacy with God. This collection is a rich tapestry where theology meets testimony, and where the worship of the church is seen not as trend or preference, but as a holy echo of heaven." – Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief, Worship Leader Magazine