 In Britain , the first music hall songs often promoted the alcoholic wares of the owners of the halls in which they were performed . Songs like " Glorious Beer " , and the first major music hall success , Champagne Charlie ( 1867 ) had a major influence in establishing the new art form . The tune of " Champagne Charlie " became used for the Salvation Army hymn " Bless His Name , He Sets Me Free " ( 1881 ) . When asked why the tune should be used like this , William Booth is said to have replied " Why should the devil have all the good tunes ? " The people the Army sought to save , knew nothing of the hymn tunes or gospel melodies used in the churches , but ' the music hall had been their melody school . ' " 
