Olney Hymns was first published in February 1779. It was the combined work of John Newton (1725–1807) and his poet friend, William Cowper (1731–1800). “Amazing Grace” first appears in print as “Hymn XLI,” paired with the sermon title, “Faith’s Review and Expectation,” and the scripture reference 1 Chronicles 17:16–17, a sermon Newton delivered to his local parish at Olney on New Year’s Day, 1773. No musical notation is present because it is not needed. Each hymn is written in one of several established meters. Tunes are interchangeable and titled independently.