Introduction:
Released in 1957, Why Me Lord is a gospel song by the American singer Elvis Presley. It stands out as a unique inclusion on Presley’s debut album, Elvis Presley, which otherwise focused on rock and roll tracks. The song was recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee on January 10, 1957, with producer Sam Phillips.
Why Me Lord is a traditional spiritual, a genre of religious folk songs passed down orally within African American communities. The lyrics express a common theme in gospel music: questioning one’s faith in the face of hardship while maintaining ultimate trust in God’s plan. Presley’s version features a simple and powerful arrangement, with just piano, bass, and drums accompanying his vocals. This stripped-down approach allows the emotional weight of the lyrics and Presley’s impassioned singing to take center stage.
Why Me Lord was not a single release and did not achieve the same level of commercial success as Presley’s rock and roll hits. However, it has gained recognition over time for its raw emotion and its significance in Presley’s musical development. The song hints at Presley’s gospel roots and influences, which would continue to inform his music throughout his career. Why Me Lord is also viewed as a sign of the versatility that Presley possessed as a singer, his ability to deliver a powerful and sincere vocal performance in a genre outside of rock and roll.
While Why Me Lord might not be one of Presley’s most famous songs, it offers a window into the gospel side of his music and serves as a reminder of the depth and range of his talent. The song’s inclusion on his debut album also highlights the ongoing influence of gospel music on early rock and roll, a genre that would see Presley become a world-renowned figure.
Video:
Lyrics:
(why me lord? what have i ever done
To deserve even one of the pleasures i’ve known
Tell me lord what did i ever do to deserve loving you
And the kindness you’ve shown)Lord heavenly jesus i praise him
So help me jesus i know what i am
Now that i know that i needed you so
Help me jesus, my soul’s in your hands(try me lord, if you think there’s a way i can ever repay
All i’ve taken from you
Forgive lord i can show someone else
What i’ve been through myself
On my way back to you)Lord heavenly jesus i praise him
So help me jesus i know what i am, oh yes!
Now that i know that i needed you so
Help me jesus my soul’s in your hands
Jesus my soul’s in your hands