If This Song Doesn’t Stir Your Soul, You Might Not Have One!
Elvis Presley’s “So High,” recorded on May 26, 1966, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, is a standout track from his gospel sessions. This song was featured on the album “How Great Thou Art,” released in February 1967, which earned Elvis a Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance in 1968. The track showcases Elvis’s powerful and soulful interpretation of gospel music, a genre he deeply cherished.
“So High” is an arrangement of a traditional gospel song that reflects the immense, unfathomable presence of God with lyrics describing God’s omnipresence. The song’s upbeat tempo and enthusiastic delivery highlight Elvis’s ability to infuse traditional gospel with his unique style, making it accessible to a broader audience.
The recording sessions for “How Great Thou Art” took place over several days in May 1966. These sessions included other notable gospel tracks like “Run On,” “Stand By Me,” and “Where No One Stands Alone.” The album’s release was met with critical acclaim, with Billboard praising it as a great reflection of where Presley got his style of singing.
Elvis’s gospel recordings, including “So High,” are significant as they reveal a different facet of his musical talent, distinct from his rock and roll persona. His deep-rooted passion for gospel music was evident throughout his career, influencing his performances and recordings. “How Great Thou Art” is particularly notable as it marked a return to form for Elvis during a period when his career was heavily focused on movies and soundtracks.
The “How Great Thou Art” album reached number 18 on the Billboard 200 and number seven on the Top Country Albums chart, illustrating its commercial success. The album’s impact was further solidified when Elvis’s live performances of gospel songs became a staple in his concerts, showcasing his versatility and deep connection to the genre.
Elvis’s career, spanning from his explosive debut in the mid-1950s to his untimely death in 1977, saw him release a vast array of music, including rock, pop, country, and gospel. He remains one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 500 million records sold globally. His influence on music and popular culture is undeniable, and his gospel recordings, including “So High,” continue to be celebrated for their passion and sincerity.
