Life Story of Legendary Musician, Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley's Gospel Album: A Career and Personal Turning Point
In the spring of 1966, Elvis Presley returned to RCA studios in Nashville to create an album that would significantly impact his career and personal life – How Great Thou Art. This album, a collection of gospel hymns, marked the beginning of a new chapter for the music legend, winning him his first Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance [1].
How Great Thou Art was more than just a gospel album; it was a reflection of Presley's deep personal connection to the genre. The album showcased his ability to convey emotional power and sincerity, resonating with listeners beyond his usual rock and pop audience [2]. This record solidified his credibility and respect within the larger music community by highlighting his roots in gospel music.
The album's success was not limited to critical acclaim. It was also a commercial success, contributing to the diversification of Presley's musical output and maintaining his popularity during a period when rock and roll was evolving [2].
The creative process behind How Great Thou Art was unique. For most numbers, Presley sang as the solo artist while one of the quartets backed him up. The arrangements for the gospel numbers consisted of Statesmen and Blackwood Brothers material [3]. A high point of the sessions occurred when Elvis and Hess, the lead singer of the Statesmen, sang a duet on the Statesmen's famous "If the Lord Wasn't Walking by My Side" [4].
Elvis was deeply rooted in gospel music, having attended all-night gospel sings at Ellis Auditorium as a teenager [5]. His love for gospel music was not just a passing fancy; it was a source of comfort and inspiration during difficult times.
By 1968, Elvis had fallen into a rut, devoid of creativity and vitality, due to years of starring in movie vehicles and recording soundtrack material. The broadcast of his television special, Elvis, in December 1968, turned his career around by introducing him to hipper recording material and new directions [6].
Despite this revival, Presley continued to find solace in gospel music. He won another Grammy for Best Inspirational Performance for "How Great Thou Art" from the album Elvis Recorded Live on Stage in Memphis in 1974 and for "He Touched Me" in 1972 [1].
In conclusion, How Great Thou Art was a significant album in Elvis Presley's career. It was a professional milestone – earning his first Grammy – and a personal expression of faith that illustrated his multifaceted artistry and the emotional depth of his performances [2].
References:
- Elvis Presley - Grammy Awards
- How Great Thou Art (Elvis Presley album)
- How Great Thou Art (Elvis Presley album) - Recording sessions
- Jake Hess
- Elvis Presley's musical influences
- Elvis (TV special)
Celebrities like Elvis Presley often face transitions in their careers, and the gospel album How Great Thou Art marked such a turning point for Presley, winning him his first Grammy in pop-culture. Within the realm of entertainment, this record showcased Presley's deep connection to gospel music, expanding his musical repertoire beyond rock and pop.
