Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Crying in the Chapel” stands as a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal, blending heartfelt spirituality with mainstream success. Released as a single in April 1965, this gospel track not only showcased Presley’s deep-rooted connection to sacred music but also reaffirmed his position in the pop music landscape during a transformative period in his career.
Origins of “Crying in the Chapel”
The song was originally penned by Artie Glenn in 1953 for his son, Darrell Glenn, who first recorded it. Darrell’s version achieved notable success, reaching number six on the Billboard pop singles chart and number four on the country and western chart. The song’s poignant melody and reflective lyrics quickly caught the attention of various artists, leading to multiple renditions across different genres. Notably, The Orioles’ doo-wop version reached number one on the R&B chart and number eleven on the pop chart, cementing the song’s widespread appeal.
Elvis Presley’s Recording Journey
Elvis Presley recorded “Crying in the Chapel” on October 31, 1960, during a session intended for his gospel album “His Hand in Mine.” Despite recording three takes, neither Presley nor his backing vocal group, The Jordanaires, were satisfied with the results, leading to the decision to shelve the recordings. Consequently, the song remained unreleased for nearly five years.
Release and Reception
In April 1965, RCA Victor released “Crying in the Chapel” as a single under their “Gold Standard Series.” The timing of its release coincided with the Easter season, aligning with the song’s spiritual themes. The single marked Presley’s first million-seller since “Return to Sender” in 1962, highlighting a significant resurgence in his commercial success.
Chart-wise, the song achieved impressive feats:
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United States: Peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominated the Easy Listening chart (now known as Adult Contemporary) for seven consecutive weeks.
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United Kingdom: Secured the number one position on the UK Singles Chart for two non-consecutive weeks, underscoring Presley’s international appeal.
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Other Territories: Reached number one in countries like Australia, Italy, and South Africa, and maintained strong chart positions in Canada, Denmark, New Zealand, and Sweden.
The song’s success was particularly noteworthy, considering the evolving musical landscape of the mid-1960s, which was dominated by the British Invasion and the rise of rock bands.
Album Inclusions
While “Crying in the Chapel” was initially recorded for the 1960 gospel album “His Hand in Mine,” it was ultimately excluded from the final tracklist. Following its successful single release in 1965, the song was later included as a bonus track in Presley’s 1967 gospel album, “How Great Thou Art.” This album further solidified Presley’s dedication to gospel music and earned him his first Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance in 1967.
Musical Genre and Style
“Crying in the Chapel” is quintessentially a gospel song, reflecting themes of redemption, humility, and spiritual solace. Presley’s rendition is characterized by its minimalist arrangement, allowing his emotive vocals to take center stage. The subtle backing by The Jordanaires complements the song’s reflective nature, creating an intimate listening experience that resonates with both religious and secular audiences.
Legacy and Impact
Elvis Presley’s version of “Crying in the Chapel” has endured as one of his most cherished recordings. Its success bridged a gap between sacred and popular music, demonstrating that gospel themes could achieve mainstream acclaim. The song’s enduring popularity is evident, as it continues to receive airplay and has been featured in various compilations of Presley’s work.
In 2015, marking the 50th anniversary of its release, the song was highlighted in retrospectives of Presley’s career, reaffirming its status as a timeless classic. Additionally, “Crying in the Chapel” has been recognized in various rankings and lists, underscoring its significance in the broader musical canon.
Conclusion
Elvis Presley’s “Crying in the Chapel” serves as a poignant reminder of his deep-rooted affinity for gospel music and his ability to transcend musical genres. Released in 1965, the song not only achieved remarkable commercial success but also reinforced Presley’s versatility as an artist. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire and touch the hearts of listeners worldwide, solidifying its place in the annals of music history.