Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s “An American Trilogy” stands as a towering monument in the realm of popular music, a poignant and powerful exploration of the American experience. Released in 1972, the song transcends genres, blending elements of country, gospel, and pop into a cohesive and emotionally charged masterpiece.
The visionary mind behind this extraordinary composition was country composer Mickey Newbury. His arrangement masterfully weaves together three iconic 19th-century songs: “Dixie,” a symbol of the antebellum South; “All My Trials,” a haunting spiritual, and “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” a stirring anthem of the Union. Under the expert production of Elvis Presley and Felton Jarvis, the medley was transformed into a live performance spectacle that would become a defining moment in Presley’s career.
When Elvis Presley first introduced “An American Trilogy” into his concert repertoire in January 1972, it quickly became a show-stopping centerpiece. The song’s raw emotional intensity, coupled with Presley’s unparalleled vocal prowess, resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Its impact was amplified by the live recordings captured on the iconic “Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii” television special, which aired in 1973.
Beyond its cultural significance, “An American Trilogy” achieved remarkable commercial success. The live recording released as a single by RCA Records climbed to number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, further solidifying Presley’s status as a musical icon. The song’s enduring legacy is evident in its continued popularity and its inclusion in countless compilations and tribute albums.
“An American Trilogy” is more than just a song; it is a profound reflection on the complexities of American history and identity. Through Presley’s masterful interpretation, the medley became a timeless anthem that continues to inspire and move listeners decades after its creation.
Video:
Lyrics:
“An American Trilogy”
Oh I wish I was in the land of cotton
Old times they are not forgotten
Look away, look away, look away, DixielandSing it, fellas.Oh I wish I was in Dixie, away, away
In Dixieland
I’ll take my stand
To live and die in DixieFor Dixieland I was born
Early Lord one frosty morn’
Look away, look away, look away, DixielandGlory, glory, hallelujah
Glory, glory, hallelujah
Glory, glory, hallelujah
His truth is marching onSo hush, little baby, don’t you cry
You know your daddy’s bound to die
But all my trials, Lord, soon be overGlory, glory, hallelujah
His truth is marching on
His truth is marching on