Introduction:
Nestled within the vast collection of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, lies a lesser-known treasure – “Milky White Way”. Recorded in 1960 during a session at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, this track sheds light on a different facet of Presley’s musical identity, venturing beyond the realm of his electrifying rockabilly persona.
Emerging from the genre of gospel, “Milky White Way” carries the legacy of artists like the Coleman Brothers, who originally composed the song in 1944. The track gained significant recognition in 1947 after the CBS Trumpeteers, a renowned African-American gospel quartet, released their rendition, propelling it to become a million-selling hit.
Presley’s encounter with “Milky White Way” wasn’t merely coincidental. The gospel tradition held immense significance for the singer. Raised in a deeply religious household, Presley’s early musical aspirations leaned towards gospel music. This influence is evident in his early recordings, and “Milky White Way” stands as a potent testament to his enduring connection with the genre.
The song’s release arrived amidst a period of immense personal grief for Presley. The passing of his mother, Gladys Love Presley, in 1958 left an indelible mark on him. “His Hand in Mine”, the album encompassing “Milky White Way,” served as a musical eulogy, a heartfelt tribute to his mother’s faith and the spiritual solace he sought in the wake of her loss.
Steve Sholes, a prominent figure in shaping Presley’s musical journey, took the helm as the song’s producer. Sholes, along with engineer Bill Porter, meticulously crafted the soundscape for Presley’s poignant rendition.
While “Milky White Way” might not have garnered the same level of commercial success as Presley’s rock and roll hits, its significance lies in the emotional depth it conveys. It offers a glimpse into the artist’s spiritual core, his unwavering faith, and the profound impact his mother’s life had on him.