Few songs in the past decade have captured the hearts and voices of people worldwide quite like “What a Beautiful Name.” Whether you first heard it resounding in a packed church or playing softly through your headphones, its melody and lyrics have left an indelible mark on countless listeners.
But behind every great song lies a story of inspiration, creativity, and collaboration. The question of who wrote “What a Beautiful Name” is more than a simple credit—it’s a window into the song’s meaning, its journey from idea to anthem, and the impact it continues to make.
Today, let’s explore the origins of this modern classic, learn about its writers, and understand why “What a Beautiful Name” continues to resonate so deeply with people across cultures and backgrounds.
As we dive into the details, you’ll see how a few powerful words and melodies can shape the way we experience both music and faith.
The Creators Behind “What a Beautiful Name”
“What a Beautiful Name” was born from a dynamic partnership between two talented Australian songwriters: Brooke Ligertwood (formerly known as Brooke Fraser) and Ben Fielding. Both are integral members of Hillsong Worship, a global collective known for shaping the soundscape of contemporary worship music.
Brooke Ligertwood, renowned for her poetic style and evocative voice, brought a deep sense of artistry to the song. Ben Fielding, an accomplished songwriter and worship leader, added his own distinct flair and theological depth.
Together, their combined strengths gave birth to a song that feels both personal and universal.
Their collaboration exemplifies how great songs often emerge from the intersection of unique perspectives. Both have written numerous songs individually, but their partnership on “What a Beautiful Name” stands out for its emotional resonance and spiritual clarity.
- Brooke Ligertwood: Singer, songwriter, and worship leader with a global following
- Ben Fielding: Prolific songwriter and key member of Hillsong Worship
- Both have received awards and recognition for their contributions to music
“We wanted the song to be simple, singable, and to focus on the name of Jesus—His beauty, power, and wonder.” — Brooke Ligertwood
Inspiration and Songwriting Process
Every timeless song begins with a spark of inspiration. For “What a Beautiful Name,” that spark came from a desire to create something that would invite listeners into a deeper awe of the divine.
Brooke and Ben were inspired by passages from the Bible, particularly from the book of Hebrews and John’s Gospel, which emphasize the supremacy and beauty of Jesus’ name.
The writing process was highly collaborative. They spent hours refining the lyrics and melody, ensuring that every word and note pointed back to their central theme.
The focus was on clarity—making the song accessible while still carrying profound meaning. They wanted anyone singing it, whether in a church or alone, to grasp the power of the message.
The result is a song that doesn’t just state facts about faith but invites worshippers into a heartfelt experience. By repeating the phrase “What a beautiful name it is,” the writers crafted a chorus that is easy to remember, yet deeply moving.
This simplicity, paired with profound truth, is what sets the song apart.
- Inspired by biblical passages such as Hebrews 1 and John 1
- Hours of collaboration and lyrical refinement
- Emphasis on making the song singable for all ages and backgrounds
“We wanted the song to be a declaration of the name of Jesus—His greatness and the victory found in Him.” — Ben Fielding
The Song’s Debut and Global Reception
When “What a Beautiful Name” was first introduced in 2016, it quickly found its way into churches and playlists around the world. Released as part of Hillsong Worship’s album “Let There Be Light,” the song became an instant favorite among worship leaders and congregations alike.
The global response was extraordinary. Within months, the song topped Christian music charts and reached millions of listeners through streaming platforms and radio.
The simplicity of the lyrics and the powerful melody made it accessible to a wide audience, transcending denominational and cultural boundaries.
One of the unique aspects of its debut was how rapidly it was adopted by churches of every size—from small rural fellowships to massive urban congregations. Its message resonated with people from diverse backgrounds, uniting them in a shared expression of worship and awe.
- Released in 2016 on the album “Let There Be Light”
- Became Hillsong Worship’s most popular song to date
- Translated into multiple languages for global use
| Country | Chart Position | Year |
| USA | #1 Christian Songs | 2017 |
| Australia | #2 Digital Songs | 2017 |
| UK | #1 Worship Songs | 2017 |
The swift adoption and translation of the song highlight its universal appeal and the enduring power of its message.
Exploring the Lyrics: Meaning and Theology
At the heart of “What a Beautiful Name” lies a rich tapestry of theological meaning. The lyrics invite listeners to reflect on the uniqueness and majesty of Jesus’ name, drawing from both ancient scripture and modern experience.
The song opens with a gentle declaration: “You were the Word at the beginning.” This line references the opening of John’s Gospel, emphasizing the eternal nature of Christ. Throughout the verses and chorus, the lyrics explore different facets of Jesus’ character—His beauty, His power, and His victory over death.
What makes the song especially powerful is its accessibility. The language is simple yet profound, allowing people of all ages to connect with its message.
Each repetition of the phrase “What a beautiful name it is” serves as both a meditation and a proclamation, inviting listeners to consider the significance of names and their meanings, much like the reflections found in What Does Juliet Say About Names and Their True Meaning.
- Focuses on the beauty, power, and wonder of Jesus’ name
- Draws from biblical language and imagery
- Uses repetition for emphasis and worship
“Death could not hold You, the veil tore before You. You silence the boast of sin and grave.” — Lyrics from “What a Beautiful Name”
Through its words, the song offers an invitation to encounter the divine in a personal and transformative way.
Recognition, Awards, and Impact
The influence of “What a Beautiful Name” has extended far beyond its original release. The song’s widespread popularity led to numerous accolades, cementing its place in contemporary worship music history.
In 2018, the song won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song—a rare achievement for a worship track. It also garnered multiple Dove Awards, including Song of the Year and Worship Song of the Year, attesting to its broad appeal and enduring impact.
More important than the awards, however, is the song’s influence on worshipers and musicians around the world. Countless artists have covered the song, putting their own spin on its timeless message.
It has been performed at conferences, weddings, funerals, and community gatherings, serving as a soundtrack for moments both joyful and solemn.
- Won the 2018 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
- Received multiple Dove Awards, including Song of the Year
- Covered by artists across genres and generations
| Award | Year | Category |
| Grammy Award | 2018 | Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song |
| Dove Award | 2017 | Song of the Year |
| Dove Award | 2017 | Worship Song of the Year |
For many, these awards are simply a reflection of the song’s ability to inspire and unite people through music.
The Songwriters’ Broader Influence
Brooke Ligertwood and Ben Fielding are far from one-hit wonders. Their impact on the world of worship music stretches across decades and continents.
Both have written and performed numerous songs that have enriched the spiritual journeys of millions.
Brooke Ligertwood’s career began in New Zealand as a solo artist, where she quickly gained recognition for her unique voice and lyrical prowess. She later joined Hillsong Worship, contributing to some of the collective’s most beloved songs.
Her artistry is marked by a commitment to authenticity and depth, qualities evident in every project she touches.
Ben Fielding, too, has an impressive catalog of songs to his name. He has penned and co-written many of Hillsong’s signature tracks, helping to shape the sound and theology of modern worship.
His ability to blend catchy melodies with substantive lyrics makes his work stand out in a crowded field.
- Both are key figures in Hillsong Worship’s songwriting team
- Have written numerous songs individually and collaboratively
- Influence extends to churches, conferences, and events worldwide
“We see songwriting as a way to serve our community and give voice to what people are feeling and experiencing.” — Brooke Ligertwood
Their ongoing work continues to set the standard for worship music globally, inspiring new generations of songwriters and worship leaders.
Why “What a Beautiful Name” Resonates Across Generations
One of the most remarkable aspects of “What a Beautiful Name” is its cross-generational appeal. The song’s message speaks to people young and old, drawing them into a shared experience of wonder and gratitude.
This broad resonance can be traced to several factors. First, the lyrics are both universal and personal, allowing each listener to find their own meaning in the song.
Second, the melody is memorable and easy to sing, making it accessible for children, teens, and adults alike. Third, the focus on the name and meaning behind names connects with a deep human curiosity, similar to the explorations found in Is Given Name Legal Name and Why It Matters.
The song’s success also reflects a larger trend in worship music toward simplicity and authenticity. Listeners crave songs that are honest, relatable, and easy to join in—qualities that “What a Beautiful Name” delivers in abundance.
- Universal themes of beauty, power, and love
- Accessible melody and structure
- Connects with listeners’ personal experiences
Ultimately, the song’s ongoing popularity demonstrates the enduring power of music to unite and uplift people across backgrounds and generations.
Names, Meaning, and Cultural Significance
“What a Beautiful Name” is more than just a title—it’s a meditation on the significance of names themselves. Across cultures and traditions, names carry stories, heritage, and meaning.
The song taps into this universal truth, inviting us to consider what it means to call someone or something by name.
For many, the name of Jesus is imbued with layers of history, hope, and promise. The songwriters skillfully draw on these associations, creating a bridge between ancient tradition and contemporary experience.
This focus on names and their meanings is echoed in resources like What Are All the Names of God in the Bible Explained, where the exploration of different titles and attributes deepens our understanding of faith.
The cultural significance of names extends beyond religion. In literature, history, and everyday life, names shape identity and perception.
Understanding the importance of names can help us appreciate the impact of a song that centers its message around the beauty and power of a name.
- Names carry cultural, spiritual, and personal significance
- “What a Beautiful Name” explores these themes through music
- Connects with broader conversations about identity and meaning
“A name is more than a label—it’s a story, a legacy, and a declaration of who we are.” — Inspired by global traditions
The song’s focus on the beauty of a name invites us to reflect on our own names and the names that have shaped our lives, much like the reflections found in What Does the Name Adam Mean in Hebrew and Its Origin.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Years after its release, “What a Beautiful Name” continues to echo in places of worship, homes, and concert halls around the globe. Its legacy is not only measured in awards or chart positions, but also in the countless stories of lives touched and hearts lifted.
The song has become a staple in church services of all sizes, often sung during moments of celebration, reflection, and even grief. It has inspired new generations of songwriters to pursue honesty and depth in their craft.
Hillsong Worship, through this song and others, has set a template for how music can shape spiritual life and community.
As we consider the ongoing influence of “What a Beautiful Name,” it’s worth noting how it has inspired discussions about the meaning and power of names—conversations that continue in articles like What Does the Name Archer Mean?
Origins and Meaning Explained and others exploring the origins and significance of names worldwide.
- Ongoing popularity in worship and beyond
- Inspires new music and creative expression
- Encourages deeper reflection on names and identity
The enduring appeal of the song is a testament to the skill and heart of its writers, as well as the timeless relevance of its message.
Conclusion: The Power of a Name and a Song
“What a Beautiful Name” stands as a shining example of what happens when artistry, faith, and collaboration meet. Written by Brooke Ligertwood and Ben Fielding, the song has transcended its origins to become a global anthem of worship, unity, and inspiration.
Its lyrics invite us to pause and reflect on the power of names—their meaning, their story, and their impact on our lives.
Beyond the accolades and chart positions, the true legacy of “What a Beautiful Name” lies in the lives it has touched. From church gatherings to personal moments of reflection, the song has provided a soundtrack for hope, healing, and gratitude.
It reminds us that music has the power to bridge divides, bring people together, and point us toward something greater than ourselves.
As we continue to sing and share this beautiful song, may we also remember the significance of names in shaping our understanding of identity, faith, and community. For further exploration into the world of names and their meanings, consider reading What Does Name Mean in the Bible?
Discover Its Significance or delving into the origins of names that have shaped history and culture. The story behind “What a Beautiful Name” is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest words carry the deepest truths—and the most beautiful names hold stories that echo for generations.
