Rock Of Ages - Simple treatment for a great hymn

This is such a beautiful hymn. It was written by Augustus Toplady in 1766, and is part of the public domain. I've often heard it interpreted as an upbeat, almost sing-song hymn; but wanted to really highlight the melody and beauty of these words. If you'd like to know more about the story, here's a link that might be interesting to read - but I've heard conflicting views about the actual circumstances that prompted this poem so I'm honestly not sure this is 100% correct. If it is, it's a great story. If not, it's still a beautiful poem and song - don't you think?

I also want to take a quick opportunity to point out that even though the CD is not available for purchase until 9-9-14, I have been adding the songs to this website for listening only in the meantime (you'll also be able to purchase them here starting on September 5!). Please take a moment to select play below, if you haven't already, and feel free to let me know your opinion about how we interpreted this one. 

If you love it, you should know that Curt Ryle with Big Matador Recording was instrumental (pun intended, haha!) in bringing this and all but two of the other songs on my album to life. I highly recommend Big Matador Recording for both songwriters and artists - if you need to record, check out the link above and reach out to Curt to see if they're a good fit for you. I hesitate to use the word "proud" in most things - but I am so proud of what we have created and I know that God will use it for his glory - both to make Himself known and to encourage an understanding of just how much He loves us. 
 
Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure; Save from wrath and make me pure.
Be of sin the double cure; Save from wrath and make me pure.


Not the labors of my hands Can fulfill Thy law's commands;
Could my zeal no respite know,Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;Thou must save, and Thou alone.
All for sin could not atone;Thou must save, and Thou alone.
 
Nothing in my hand I bring, Simply to the cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress; Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly; Wash me, Savior, or I die.
Foul, I to the fountain fly; Wash me, Savior, or I die.
 
While I draw this fleeting breath,When mine eyes shall close in death,
When I soar to worlds unknown, See Thee on Thy judgment throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee.
 
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself
in Thee.

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