Introduction:
“Somebody Bigger Than You And I” is a gospel song that Elvis Presley recorded in 1966. The song is part of his gospel album titled How Great Thou Art, which was released in February 1967. This album marked a significant moment in Elvis’s career, as it not only highlighted his deep-rooted love for gospel music but also earned him a Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance.
The song itself, “Somebody Bigger Than You And I,” is a classic gospel hymn that was originally written in 1951 by the songwriting trio Johnny Lange, Hy Heath, and Sonny Burke. The song has a powerful and uplifting message, reflecting on the greatness of a higher power and how that power guides and protects through life’s challenges. The lyrics beautifully convey the idea of a divine presence that is larger than any individual, offering solace and strength.
Elvis’s rendition of “Somebody Bigger Than You And I” is one of the standout tracks on How Great Thou Art. The album is widely regarded as one of his most significant contributions to gospel music and showcases his vocal ability in the genre. The production of the song, along with the rest of the album, was handled by Felton Jarvis, who was one of Elvis’s key producers during this period.
Musically, the song falls squarely within the gospel genre, with its soulful melodies and rich harmonies. Elvis’s performance is marked by his deep, resonant voice, which was perfectly suited to this style of music. The arrangement of the song is both traditional and inspirational, featuring the backing vocals of The Jordanaires, a gospel quartet that frequently collaborated with Elvis.
How Great Thou Art achieved commercial success and critical acclaim. It peaked at number 18 on the Billboard 200 and went on to be certified Platinum by the RIAA. The album’s impact on gospel music, as well as its role in Elvis’s career, cannot be understated. It solidified his status not just as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll but also as a respected interpreter of gospel music.