About the song
In the vast tapestry of Elvis Presley’s musical legacy, his 1974 live recording of “How Great Thou Art” stands as a testament to the depth of his artistry and the sincerity of his faith. While many recognize Elvis as the King of Rock and Roll, his repertoire extended far beyond the realm of popular music. He possessed a profound appreciation for gospel music, a genre that held deep personal significance throughout his life.
This particular performance, captured during a concert in Memphis, showcases Elvis at the height of his vocal prowess. His voice, rich and resonant, imbues the timeless hymn with a sense of reverence and awe. The arrangement, while faithful to the traditional melody, is infused with Elvis’s signature style, a blend of power and vulnerability that captivates the listener.
“How Great Thou Art” is a hymn of praise, a declaration of wonder at the majesty of creation and the divine love that permeates it. Elvis’s rendition transcends mere performance; it becomes a spiritual experience, a moment of shared devotion between the artist and his audience. His heartfelt delivery and impassioned phrasing convey a sense of genuine connection to the song’s message, inviting listeners to reflect on their own relationship with the sacred.
For those familiar with Elvis’s body of work, this performance offers a glimpse into the soul of the man behind the legend. It reveals a depth of emotion and a spiritual yearning that often remained hidden beneath his charismatic stage persona. Elvis was a complex figure, a man of immense talent and equally profound humanity. In “How Great Thou Art,” we witness the convergence of these facets, a moment where his artistry and his faith intertwine to create something truly transcendent.
Video
Lyrics
Oh Lord, my God
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds thy hands have made
I see the stars
I hear the rolling thunder
Thy power throughout the universe displayed
Then I shall bow in humble adoration
And there proclaim, my God, how great thou art
Then sings my soul, my savior God, to thee
How great thou art (How great thou art)
How great thou art (How great thout art)
Then sings my soul, my savior God, to thee
How great thou art
How great thou art