Elvis Presley – Joshua Fit The Battle

Introduction:

Nestled amongst the rock and roll anthems and heartthrob ballads that defined Elvis Presley’s early career lies a hidden gem: “Joshua Fit the Battle”. Released in 1960 on the album “His Hand in Mine”, this track marked a significant departure from Elvis’s signature sound, venturing into the rich and vibrant world of gospel music.

“Joshua Fit the Battle” wasn’t a new composition for Elvis. The song is a traditional spiritual, its origins likely dating back to the early 19th century. Passed down through generations, it became a staple of African American spirituals, sung in churches and communities across the American South. The lyrics, filled with symbolism and references to biblical figures like Joshua leading the Israelites out of Egypt, expressed themes of hope, perseverance, and faith in the face of struggle.

Elvis’s embrace of “Joshua Fit the Battle” wasn’t purely artistic. Gospel music was a cornerstone of his upbringing in Tupelo, Mississippi. He was exposed to its soulful sounds from a young age, both at home and in the church. His parents, particularly his mother Gladys, were devout Christians, and gospel music permeated their household. This influence is evident in Elvis’s early recordings, where gospel flourishes can be heard even in his rock and roll tunes.

However, “Joshua Fit the Battle” stands out as a full-fledged exploration of the genre. Produced by Steve Sholes, the track features a stripped-down arrangement, with Elvis’s powerful vocals taking center stage. He’s backed by the Jordanaires, a vocal group known for their gospel harmonies, and Millie Kirkham, who adds a soulful touch with her soaring background vocals. The instrumentation is sparse, relying on piano, bass, and handclaps to create a driving, rhythmic pulse that perfectly complements the song’s energy.

“Joshua Fit the Battle” wasn’t a major commercial hit for Elvis, failing to crack the Billboard charts. However, its significance lies beyond chart success. It served as a powerful testament to Elvis’s musical roots and his deep connection to gospel music. The song resonated with fans who appreciated his versatility and willingness to explore different musical styles. More importantly, it offered a glimpse into the artist’s faith and the profound influence gospel music had on him.

In the years that followed, Elvis would revisit gospel music throughout his career, releasing several critically acclaimed gospel albums. But “Joshua Fit the Battle” remains a pivotal moment, a heartfelt and powerful rendition of a timeless spiritual that showcased the depth and breadth of Elvis Presley’s musical talent.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Joshua Fit The Battle”

Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
Jericho Jericho
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
And the walls come tumbling downGod knows that
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
Jericho Jericho
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
And the walls come tumbling down

Good morning sister Mary
Good morning brother John
Well I wanna stop and talk with you
Wanna tell you how I come along

I know you’ve heard about Joshua
He was the son of Nun
He never stopped his work until
Until the work was done

God knows that
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
Jericho Jericho
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
And the walls come tumbling down

You may talk about your men of Gideon
You may brag about your men of Saul
There’s none like good old Joshua
At the battle of Jericho

Up to the walls of Jericho
He marched with spear in hand
Go blow them ram horns, Joshua cried
‘Cause the battle is in my hands

God knows that
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
Jericho Jericho
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
And the walls come tumbling down

You may talk about your men of Gideon
You may brag about your king of Saul
There none like Joshua
At the battle of Jericho

They tell me, great God that Joshua’s spear
Was well nigh twelve feet long
And upon his hip was a double edged sword
And his mouth was a gospel horn

Yet bold and brave he stood
Salvation in his hand
Go blow them ram horns Joshua cried
‘Cause the devil can’t do you no harm

Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
Jericho Jericho
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
And the walls come tumbling down

Up to the walls of Jericho
He marched with spear in hand
Go blow them ram horns, Joshua cried
‘Cause the battle is in my hands

Then the lamb ram sheep horns began to blow
The trumpets began to sound
Old Joshua shouted glory
And the walls came tumblin’ down

God knows that
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
Jericho Jericho
Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
And the walls come tumbling down

Down, down, down, down, down
Tumblin’ down