Introduction:
Somebody Bigger Than You And I, a gospel song by the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley, made its debut in 1967. While not released as a single, the track holds a significant place within Presley’s vast catalog, showcasing a different side of the musician often associated with high-energy rock and roll anthems. The song was produced by RCA Victor, a record company that would be Presley’s musical home throughout his career.
Somebody Bigger Than You And I wasn’t Presley’s first foray into gospel music. Throughout his career, he would integrate elements of gospel into his performances and recordings, reflecting his own deep religious faith. However, 1967 marked a particularly fruitful period for Presley’s exploration of the genre. That same year, he released the critically acclaimed album, How Great Thou Art, a full-fledged gospel record that garnered much praise for Presley’s soulful renditions of traditional hymns. Somebody Bigger Than You And I can be seen as a companion piece to this album, offering a powerful original gospel ballad alongside the established classics.
The songwriting credits for Somebody Bigger Than You And I go to trio Johnny Lange, Hy Heath, and Sonny Burke. While not household names themselves, the three were prolific songwriters behind the scenes, contributing music to a variety of genres and artists throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Somebody Bigger Than You And I stands as a testament to their ability to craft a moving gospel song that resonated with Presley and his audience.
Somebody Bigger Than You And I is a ballad, a stark contrast to the fast-paced, energetic rock and roll that Presley was known for at the beginning of his career. The song allows Presley’s powerful vocals to shine in a different way, delivering a sincere and emotionally charged performance. The lyrics themselves address themes of faith and humility, conveying a message of hope and trust in a higher power. Presley’s impassioned delivery elevates the material, creating a gospel song that is both powerful and introspective.
Despite not being a single release, Somebody Bigger Than You And I has become a recognizable track among Elvis Presley fans. It is a song that showcases Presley’s versatility as a musician and his deep connection to gospel music. The track continues to be enjoyed by fans both old and new, serving as a reminder of the King of Rock and Roll’s enduring influence that reached far beyond the realm of rock and roll.
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Lyrics:
Who made the mountains? Who made the trees?Who made the rivers flow to the sea?And who sends the rain when the earth is dry?Somebody bigger than you and I
Who made the flowers to bloom in the Spring?Who made the song for the robins to sing?And who hung the moon and the stars in the sky?Somebody bigger than you and I
He lights the way when the road is longHe keeps you companyAnd with His love to guide youHe walks beside youJust like He walks with me
When I am weary, filled with despairWho gives me courage to go on from there?And who gives me faith that will never dieSomebody bigger than you and I