About the song
“How Great Thou Art: A Timeless Hymn, Reimagined
Elvis Presley. The name alone evokes images of swiveling hips, gold lamé suits, and a voice that could melt hearts. Yet, beneath the glitz and glamour, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll possessed a profound spiritual side. This is perhaps nowhere more evident than in his rendition of the timeless hymn, “How Great Thou Art”.
Originally a Swedish folk song, “How Great Thou Art” has been covered countless times by artists across various genres. However, Presley’s version, released in 1967 during a period when his career was undergoing a spiritual renewal, holds a unique place in the song’s history. His deep, resonant voice and heartfelt delivery imbue the hymn with a raw emotional power that is both deeply moving and undeniably authentic.
In an era marked by social upheaval and cultural shifts, Presley’s interpretation of “How Great Thou Art” offered a message of hope and solace. The lyrics, which speak of the majesty of God’s creation and the overwhelming gratitude that one feels for such divine beauty, resonated with audiences seeking meaning in a chaotic world. By infusing this traditional hymn with his signature rock ‘n’ roll energy, Presley not only appealed to his existing fan base but also introduced a new generation to the power and beauty of gospel music.
What makes Presley’s version of “How Great Thou Art” so compelling is the way in which he manages to balance the song’s religious themes with his own personal experiences. His performance is marked by a sense of vulnerability and introspection, suggesting that he is singing not only about God but also about his own struggles and triumphs. This combination of the universal and the personal is what makes the song so enduring.
Beyond its religious significance, “How Great Thou Art” is also a testament to the versatility of Elvis Presley as an artist. While he is perhaps best known for his upbeat, rock ‘n’ roll hits, his ability to interpret a wide range of musical styles with equal skill is a testament to his immense talent. In this particular recording, Presley demonstrates a mastery of dynamics, phrasing, and emotional expression that is rarely seen in popular music.
In conclusion, Elvis Presley’s rendition of “How Great Thou Art” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift listeners of all ages and backgrounds. By combining the spiritual power of a traditional hymn with the raw energy of rock ‘n’ roll, Presley created a recording that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Whether you are a lifelong fan of the King or simply someone who appreciates great music, “How Great Thou Art” is a song that is well worth hearing.”
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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
