"Come, Come, Ye Saints"

Episode 16: The history behind "Come, Come, Ye Saints”: William Clayton—an American pioneer, journalist, scribe, inventor, lyricist, and musician—was born in 1814 in Penwortham, in northwestern England. At age 22 he joined the Church, as did his wife. In early April 1846, Brother Clayton was a member of the first company of Mormon pioneers to face the westward trek to Utah. During the journey he composed new text to the music of a recently-popularized song, “All Is Well.” The new hymn, known today as “Come, Come, Ye Saints,” quickly became a favorite among the Saints crossing the plains. This program includes contemporary renditions of “Come, Come, Ye Saints” by the following artists: Lex de Azevedo, Merrill Jensen, Michael Dowdle, Jenny Richards, Jenny Oaks Baker, Octapella, and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square.