Introduction
Elvis Presley’s 1977 live performance of “How Great Thou Art” stands as a testament to his deep-rooted affection for gospel music. Despite his fame as the “King of Rock & Roll,” Elvis consistently showcased his reverence for gospel through both his recorded works and live renditions.
“How Great Thou Art” is a hymn with a rich history. Originating in 1885, Swedish evangelist Rev. Carl Boberg penned the lyrics, inspired by a natural phenomenon he witnessed. The hymn underwent translations from Swedish to German, Russian, and eventually English, with missionary Stuart Hine playing a pivotal role in its English adaptation. It wasn’t until 1957 that the song gained widespread recognition when George Beverly Shea performed it during a Billy Graham crusade.
Elvis’s introduction to “How Great Thou Art” came during the recording sessions for his 1967 gospel album of the same name. The album not only achieved commercial success, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Pop Album chart, but also earned Elvis his first Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance.
Incorporating “How Great Thou Art” into his live performances, Elvis infused each rendition with profound emotion and sincerity. His 1977 live performance is particularly poignant, reflecting his personal connection to the hymn and his commitment to delivering an authentic gospel experience to his audience.