Johnson Oatman Jr. was a prolific Christian hymn writer born on April 21, 1856, near Medford, New Jersey. He was the son of Johnson and Rachel Ann Oatman. His father was an excellent singer, and it always delighted the son to sit by his side and hear him sing the songs of the church. Oatman attended Herbert’s Academy in Vincentown, New Jersey, and the New Jersey Collegiate Institute, Bordentown, New Jersey. He was ordained as a Methodist Episcopal minister, but his pastoral work was confined to local churches, as he worked full time in the retail and insurance industries. Oatman wrote lyrics for over 5,000 gospel songs, including “Count Your Blessings,” which is still sung today. He was a prolific writer and his songs were widely popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Oatman passed away on September 25, 1922, in Norman, Oklahoma. His legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and uplift people around the world.
Higher Ground (Lord lift me up)
- Johnson Oatman
I'm Pressing On the Upward Way | Lord Lift me up
- Johnson Oatman
Count Your Blessings
- Johnson Oatman
Only Once You Pass This Way
- Johnson Oatman