When most people hear the powerful hymn “Praise to the Man,” they think of the bold, bagpipe-like melody set to Scotland the Brave. This rousing version—often performed in Latter-day Saint congregations or by the Tabernacle Choir—is deeply embedded in Latter-day Saint tradition.
But did you know this wasn’t the tune originally intended?
According to the Tabernacle Choir’s blog, the lyrics we know today were penned by William W. Phelps, a Church pioneer and devoted follower of Joseph Smith.
Phelps delivered a eulogy at the Prophet’s funeral and later composed a poetic tribute titled “Joseph”.
This heartfelt composition was printed anonymously in The Times and Seasons, a Church publication of the era.
Interestingly, the first printed version came with a musical instruction: it was meant to be sung to the tune of the Christmas carol “Star in the East.”
Yup—rather than the triumphant march we now recognize, the hymn was originally paired with a tender, even haunting melody. The emotional tone of “Star in the East” reflected the deep grief and reverence felt by those mourning the loss of their prophet.
Hear It for Yourself
Musician and YouTuber Ben Abbott recorded this lesser-known version, using the original suggested tune. He notes in the video description that the melody’s mournful tone “perhaps conveyed the grief Smith’s followers were experiencing” at the time. It’s a version that feels deeply personal—and historically meaningful.
The Familiar Rendition
Of course, the version most Latter-day Saints know and love today is the one paired with Scotland the Brave.
A Little About the Hymnwriter . . .
William W. Phelps was more than just a hymnwriter—he was a voice for early Church doctrine and devotion. He contributed the lyrics to 15 hymns still sung by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today. Among them are favorites like:
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“Now Let Us Rejoice”
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“The Spirit of God”
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“If You Could Hie to Kolob”
He also played a key role in publishing early revelations that would later become part of the Doctrine and Covenants.
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