Introduction:
“Known Only to Him” is a moving gospel song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1960 as part of his first full gospel album, His Hand in Mine. Written by Stuart Hamblen, the song’s lyrics center on themes of trust, faith, and the divine’s understanding of human struggles. This was significant for Elvis, whose love for gospel was deeply ingrained since his childhood in Tupelo, Mississippi, where he frequently sang at church with his family. Gospel music had always been a foundation for Elvis, and this song, along with the rest of the His Hand in Mine album, allowed him to pay homage to these roots.
Elvis recorded “Known Only to Him” at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, with contributions from prominent session musicians, including guitarist Hank Garland and saxophonist Boots Randolph. The album and the song were also personal tributes, especially following the recent passing of his mother, Gladys, whose memory he honored through the spirituality and sincerity of his gospel renditions. Elvis’s performance in “Known Only to Him” brings out a softer, reflective side, distinct from his rock-and-roll persona, showcasing his deep connection to the genre and his faith.
The song did not chart as highly as his mainstream hits but remains a cherished piece of his catalog, often celebrated for its authenticity and the glimpse it offers into Elvis’s more personal beliefs. His Hand in Mine marked an important step in Elvis’s career, confirming his versatility and dedication to gospel, which he revisited in later works like How Great Thou Art and He Touched Me.