How Great Thou Art: The Iconic Hymn by Elvis Presley
The Evolution of "How Great Thou Art"
For decades, Elvis Presley’s song "How Great Thou Art" has been a staple of Christian music and a beloved classic among music fans. First recorded in 1956, the song has undergone many transformations, with changes to the melody, lyrics, and arrangement. But despite these changes, the core message of the song remains the same – a tribute to God’s greatness.
The Original Version
The song was written by Carl Boberg, a Swedish pastor, in 1885. The original lyrics were:
"Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace among people,
Where earthy wights do bend their knees.
All the people;
Where and whenever they arise
Hail the Heir of your throne
All the people;
Where and whenever they arise
Give glory to God to be blessed for evermore**"
Elvis’s Re-Recording
Elvis Presley’s version of "How Great Thou Art" was recorded on July 20, 1956, in Memphis, Tennessee. He sang the song with his powerful, baritone voice, accompanied by an orchestra conducted by The Jordanaires. The original recording was a significant departure from the traditional version, with Elvis’s vocal style and phrasing adding a new layer of emotional depth to the song.
Changes Over the Years
Since Elvis’s original recording, the song has undergone many changes. Here are a few notable examples:
- Changes to the Melody: The original melody was simple and minimalist, whereas Elvis’s version has a more dramatic and soaring quality.
- Changes to the Lyrics: Elvis’s version has a slightly different set of lyrics, with some changes to the phrasing and wording.
- Changes to the Arrangement: Elvis’s version features a more driving rhythm and a larger orchestral arrangement, which adds to the song’s energetic and anthemic feel.
Musical Influences
Elvis’s version of "How Great Thou Art" was heavily influenced by traditional Christian music, particularly hymns and gospel songs. He drew on his own musical experiences and interests, including his exposure to old-time gospel music and his love of baritone singing.
Impact on Music
"How Great Thou Art" has had a significant impact on music and culture. It has been covered by countless artists, including The Beatles, Johnny Cash, and AC/DC, and has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. The song’s message of faith and devotion has resonated with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
Meaning and Significance
At its core, "How Great Thou Art" is a song about the greatness of God. It speaks to the idea that God is a superior power, beyond human understanding, and that He is worthy of our praise and worship. The song’s message is one of humility and reverence, encouraging listeners to approach God with a sense of awe and wonder.
Inspirational Examples
Elvis’s version of "How Great Thou Art" has inspired countless fans over the years. Here are a few examples:
- The Beatles: In their 1967 single "How Come There’s no Love?", Paul McCartney sang a harmony on the backing vocals, using the same syllables as Elvis’s original recording.
- Johnny Cash: In his 1979 album "At Folsom Prison", Johnny Cash recorded a version of "How Great Thou Art" with the members of the Folsom Prison Quartet, featuring a dramatic reading of the song.
- AC/DC: In their 2001 album "The Razors Edge", AC/DC recorded a version of "How Great Thou Art" with vocalist Brian Johnson, using a harder-edged, rock-influenced arrangement.
Conclusion
"How Great Thou Art" is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners to this day. Elvis’s original version was a groundbreaking recording that helped to establish the song as a staple of Christian music. Since then, the song has undergone many changes, but its core message remains the same – a tribute to God’s greatness and a reminder of the importance of faith and devotion.
Table: Key Facts about "How Great Thou Art"
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 1956 |
| Original Artist | Carl Boberg |
| Arrangement | Carl Boberg, Fred Coots, and Don Swander |
| Elvis Presley’s Version | Recorded on July 20, 1956 |
| Meaning | A tribute to God’s greatness, emphasizing the importance of faith and devotion |
| Influences | Traditional Christian music, old-time gospel music, baritone singing |
| Impact | Covered by countless artists, featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials |
Video: How Great Thou Art by Elvis Presley (1956)
Watch Elvis’s original recording of "How Great Thou Art" on YouTube:
Note: The video is not available for purchase or streaming. The original recording is a copyrighted work, and unauthorized use or reproduction is not permitted.