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Keith & Kristyn Getty Give "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" an Unexpected Twist


Published: Jul 11, 2026 05:23 AM EDT

Keith and Kristyn Getty are breathing fresh life into one of Christianity's most cherished hymns.

The acclaimed hymn writers have officially released their brand-new recording of "What a Friend We Have in Jesus," offering listeners a warm, intimate interpretation that blends timeless theology with elegant acoustic arrangements.

Listen to the song here.

Serving as the first single from their forthcoming studio album, the Gettys' latest release reimagines the beloved classic with a gentle French-inspired musical style, creating a peaceful listening experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

For generations, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" has comforted believers through seasons of joy, sorrow, uncertainty, and prayer. Rather than dramatically reinventing the hymn, Keith and Kristyn chose to preserve its enduring message while wrapping it in rich instrumentation and understated beauty that invites listeners to linger over every lyric.

The result is a recording that feels less like a performance and more like a quiet invitation to rest in God's presence.

Sharing news of the release, the Gettys described the song as one many believers have carried with them for years. Their hope is that this fresh rendition will once again lead listeners to the comfort, assurance, and nearness of Christ-the faithful Friend who hears every prayer.

The release also offers the first glimpse into the musical direction of the duo's upcoming studio album, which is expected to continue their signature approach of combining biblically rich lyrics with beautifully crafted arrangements designed for both personal worship and congregational singing.

Over the past two decades, Keith and Kristyn Getty have become two of the most influential voices in modern hymnody. Their songs, including the globally loved "In Christ Alone," have been translated into numerous languages and sung by millions of Christians across denominational lines. Their mission has remained remarkably consistent: to help the Church recover songs that are both doctrinally deep and musically enduring.

That same commitment is evident in this latest release. Instead of chasing musical trends, the Gettys once again demonstrate that timeless truths never go out of style.

For listeners searching for moments of peace amid life's constant noise, their new version of "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" serves as a gentle reminder that the hymn's central message is just as relevant today as when it was first written: believers have a faithful Savior who welcomes every burden, every sorrow, and every prayer.

The new single is available now on all major streaming platforms, with the full studio album expected to follow in the coming months.