Introduction:
Nestled amongst the rock and roll anthems and heart-throbbing ballads that defined Elvis Presley’s career lies a beacon of faith – “It Is No Secret What God Can Do”. Released in 1957 on his iconic Elvis’ Christmas Album, this gospel track stands as a testament to the King’s early musical influences and his personal beliefs.
While Elvis is predominantly known for his electrifying blend of rockabilly and blues, his roots were firmly planted in gospel music. Growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi, he was surrounded by the sounds of Southern gospel quartets and hymns sung in Baptist churches. These early experiences undoubtedly shaped his musical sensibilities, and “It Is No Secret What God Can Do” offers a glimpse into this facet of his musical identity.
Composed by gospel singer and songwriter Stuart Hamblen, the song isn’t an original Elvis composition. Hamblen, a prominent figure in the burgeoning rockabilly scene, was known for infusing gospel themes into his music. “It Is No Secret What God Can Do” perfectly captures this style, with its uplifting lyrics and hopeful message. The production, overseen by legendary producer Steve Sholes, is equally understated, featuring a simple arrangement with piano, bass, and backing vocals by the Jordanaires, a renowned gospel quartet who frequently collaborated with Elvis.
“It Is No Secret What God Can Do” doesn’t boast the bombastic production or electrifying energy of Elvis’s rock and roll hits. Instead, its power lies in its sincerity and straightforward delivery. The lyrics, delivered with conviction in Elvis’s unmistakable baritone, speak of God’s power to provide comfort, forgiveness, and hope, particularly in times of hardship. Lines like “The chimes of time ring out the news, Another day is through / Someone slipped and fell. Was that someone you?” establish a sense of empathy and vulnerability, themes often present in gospel music.
Elvis’s embrace of gospel music on “It Is No Secret What God Can Do” wasn’t simply a nod to his roots. Gospel was a commercially viable genre in the 1950s, and the song’s inclusion on his Christmas album reflects this. However, the track transcends mere commercial strategy. It offers a window into the King’s personal faith and his ability to connect with a broader audience on a deeper level. “It Is No Secret What God Can Do” may not be one of Elvis’s best-known songs, but it remains a powerful testament to his musical versatility and his enduring influence on American music.