If this song doesn’t touch your soul, it seems you might not have one!
Elvis Presley’s “So High,” recorded on May 26, 1966, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, is a notable entry in his collection of gospel music. Featured on the album *How Great Thou Art*, released in February 1967, the track showcases a distinctive blend of traditional gospel and Elvis’s unique vocal style. This album was a significant milestone in Elvis’s career, earning him a Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance in 1968, underscoring the impact of his gospel work.
“So High” is an arrangement of a traditional gospel song that reflects on the majesty and omnipresence of God. The lyrics celebrate the transcendent nature of the divine, conveying a sense of awe and reverence. The upbeat tempo and dynamic delivery of Elvis’s rendition bring a spirited energy to the track, highlighting his ability to blend traditional gospel elements with his own energetic style. This approach helped to bring gospel music to a broader audience, further enhancing its appeal.
The recording sessions for *How Great Thou Art* spanned several days in May 1966 and included a number of other significant gospel tracks, such as “Run On,” “Stand By Me,” and “Where No One Stands Alone.” These sessions were marked by a deep sense of dedication from Elvis, who brought his characteristic intensity and passion to the recordings. The album as a whole received critical acclaim, with its gospel content reflecting the profound impact of Elvis’s religious faith on his music.
Elvis’s gospel recordings, including “So High,” reveal a different dimension of his artistic expression compared to his more widely known rock and roll hits. His commitment to gospel music was deeply rooted in his personal beliefs and experiences, and this aspect of his career allowed him to explore and showcase his musical versatility. During a period when his career was heavily focused on film and soundtrack work, *How Great Thou Art* marked a return to his gospel roots, reinvigorating his connection to this genre.
The commercial success of *How Great Thou Art* was evident in its performance on the charts, reaching number 18 on the Billboard 200 and number seven on the Top Country Albums chart. This success reflected the broad appeal of Elvis’s gospel music and reinforced his status as a multifaceted artist capable of captivating audiences across different musical genres. His live performances of gospel songs, including “So High,” became a hallmark of his concert repertoire, further demonstrating his versatility and deep connection to gospel music.
Elvis Presley’s career, which began with his explosive debut in the mid-1950s, spanned a wide range of musical styles, including rock, pop, country, and gospel. His influence on music and popular culture is profound, with over 500 million records sold globally, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His gospel recordings, including “So High,” are celebrated for their passion, sincerity, and the unique way in which they integrate traditional gospel themes with his own distinctive vocal style.
The legacy of Elvis’s gospel music, particularly through tracks like “So High,” continues to be celebrated for its depth and emotional resonance. His ability to convey spiritual and uplifting messages through his music remains a testament to his artistic talent and his enduring impact on the music industry. Elvis’s gospel performances not only highlight his vocal prowess but also reflect his personal devotion and the profound effect that gospel music had on his life and career.
