New Variation On 1960s Hymn "Heaven Came Down"

So really, my "New" variation isn't that complicated. The original hymn is written in 6/8 time, and can tend to become a dirge. All I did was change the key signature to 4/4 time to give it a heavy back-beat. This gives it a better rock feel which fits the modern worship style much better.

I added a intro that follows a simple modern chord progression, and I also added a short bridge/outro section that moves lyrically from from high to low as the lyrics sing "heaven came down."

On guitar, I am playing it with the cut capo. This allows me to move quickly between 1 and 2 finger chords. It also helps with some the tough G#/C chord on the chorus. If you haven't experimented much with the cut capo, you really should give it a try. It is a huge tool for an average guitar player like myself.

That's about it. This song was written as an arrangement from the 1960s hymn by John W Peterson. This was only the 1st time it was ever played publicly. Thanks to the band for following my directions and getting it together.

original video source

Ignore some of the misplacement of chords due to blogger's text editor ... use the video as a template. Check it out!

Heaven Came Down (John W Peterson, arr Milo Wilson)

Intro
C#m B E/G# B
C#m B E A

Verse 1
E
O what a wonderful wonderful day
B
Day I will never forget
B
After I'd wandered in darkness away
E
Jesus my Savior I met
E
O what a tender compassionate friend
A
He met the need of my heart
E
Shadows dispelling with joy I am telling
B E
He made all the darkness depart

Verse 2
E
Born of the Spirit with life from above
B
Into God's family divine
B
Justified fully thru Calvary's love
E
O what a standing is mine
E
And the transaction so quickly was made
A
When as a sinner I came
E
Took of the offer of grace
B
He did proffer He saved me
E
O praise His dear name

CHORUS

Chorus 1
E C#m A B E A E
Heaven came down and glory filled my soul
E C#m A B E A E
When at the cross the Savior made me whole
F#m
My sins were washed away
E/B G#/C C#m F#7
And my night was turned to day
E C#m A B E A E
Heaven came down and glory filled my soul

Verse 3
E
Now I've a hope that will surely endure
B
After the passing of time
B
I have a future in heaven for sure
E
There in those mansions sublime
E
And it's because of that wonderful day
A
When at the cross I believed
E
Riches eternal and blessings supernal
B E
From His precious hand I received

CHORUS

BRIDGE
F#m C#m A E
Heaven came down, Heaven came down
F#m C#m A E/G#
Heaven came down, and glory, and glory
A B/D# E
and glory filled my soul