Got a question regarding the tune of "Amazing Grace"

[MarkRohfrietsch]

Hi friends,

In a thread over in the EO Forum (http://www.christianforums.com/t7478921/) this came up as a result of a rather humerus discussion:

Well, well, truth is stranger than fiction! The tune of Amazing Grace is actually from the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Ethiopian Orthodox Christian slaves sang this song on the slave boat over to America. This tune was picked up by the owner of that slave book and given English lyrics.

A group of Ethiopian Orthodox Hierarchs were visiting the U.S.A. and were treated to a Gospel Festival where Amazing Grace was being sung. Needless to say, they were quite shocked that a sacred hymn from their own Divine Liturgy had been appropriated by the Americans.

I asked about the tunes usage, and the original words that are set to this tune. Other than they believe it is part of the Ethiopian Liturgy, no one seems to know.

Being ever curious, I hope some of the members here may be able to enlighten us!

God bless you all!

Mark.

 

[lankyknight1990]

Absolutely no idea. Wouldnt suprise me however. I have heard the tune was picked up from someone else. However it wouldnt sound like you know it. The Ethiopian Chant is, shall i say, A little different. lol.

 

[MariaRegina]

Here is an example of Ethiopian Orthodox Music:

YouTube - ethiopian orthodox song

 

[MariaRegina]

I am doing a brief search of their songs on You Tube:

They have a very exotic tone here with trills often used at funerals and wedding.

YouTube - Ethiopian Orthodox Church Song

 

[JTornado1]

I am doing a brief search of their songs on You Tube:

They have a very exotic tone here with trills often used at funerals and wedding.

YouTube - Ethiopian Orthodox Church Song

Thank you very much for sharing those videos. I have never listened to Ethiopian Orthodox music before.

 

[MarkRohfrietsch]

I believe that I have found what I was looking for; see post here: #34

...now, what would the English translation be?