The beauty of John Newton's timeless song "Amazing Grace" lies largely in its powerful lyrics, but it's the hymn's simple melody and flow that has allowed it to be re-recorded by artists of so many different genres with so much success. Here, we feature a variety of renditions--some by famous artists and some by our own readers. So whether you prefer gospel, country, punk, rock, folk, or choral music, you're sure to find a version that touches your soul.

Alabama Songs of Inspiration Although these Country Music Hall of Famers retired from touring in 2005, last year they released "Songs of Inspiration," their first album in five years, and their first-ever album of religious music. Their soft country version, accompanied by strings is soothing and beautiful. Buy 'Songs of Inspiration' Petra Farewell These Christian rock/heavy metal pioneers were in the business for over 30 years when they released their final album, 2005's aptly titled "Farewell." Their rockin' version of "Amazing Grace" uses selected verses of the classic hymn, with a new chorus, "But your love came down and saved me." Buy 'Farewell' Various Artists Amazing Grace: Music Inspired by the Motion Picture Popular Christian worship singer Chris Tomlin collaborates with the world-renown, award-winning Wilberforce choir out of Wilberforce University (the oldest historically black college in America). A new chorus proclaims "My chains are gone, I've been set free." Buy 'Amazing Grace: Music Inspired by the Motion Picture' Ladysmith Black Mambazo Long Walk to Freedom South Africa's wonderful a cappella chorus, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, teams up with country music legend Emmylou Harris on this unique rendition, which incorporates a part of another classic hymn, "Nearer My God to Thee." Buy 'Long Walk to Freedom' Various Artists Amazing Grace: Timeless Hymns of Faith Darlene Zschech, the world-famous Hillsong Church worship pastor, has a voice that flows beautifully and flawlessly along with piano accompaniment. Buy 'Amazing Grace: Timeless Hymns of Faith' Jim Brickman (featuring Ginny Owens) Grace The composer and contemporary pianist sings with blind CCM artist Ginny Owens. The slight echoing of her beautiful, ethereal voice hypnotizes. Buy 'Grace' Sufjan Stevens Songs for Christmas Hip, of-the-moment folk singer Sufjan Stevens-known for his songs about family and faith-plays an extremely raw, emotional version of the hymn. He provides a wonderfully old-fashioned, rustic simplicity to the song. Buy 'Songs for Christmas' Robert Shaw Festival Singers Amazing Grace In 1993, this talented chorus of The Ohio State University, conducted by 14-time Grammy Award winner Robert Shaw, included this rendition in a wonderfully diverse collection of hymns and spirituals. Buy 'Amazing Grace: American Hymns and Spirituals' Flatfoot 56 Knuckles Up Christian punk band Flatfoot 56's awesome, energy-filled, kicked-up rendition is truly unique. The song opens with traditional bagpipes slowly playing, and eventually increases the tempo and includes fast drumming and guitar playing. Buy 'Knuckles Up' Various Artists Voices: 50 A Capella Christian Classics The New Bethel Baptist Church Choir of Washington, D.C., contributes many soulful songs to this unique a capella album--one of the best being "Amazing Grace." Buy 'Voices: 50 A Capella Christian Classics'