Introduction:
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, wasn’t just known for his electrifying performances and hip-shaking tunes. Throughout his career, Presley also embraced his gospel roots, releasing several acclaimed gospel albums. One such gem is “Swing Down Sweet Chariot”, a traditional spiritual song that Presley reimagined for his 1960 gospel record, “His Hand in Mine”.
“Swing Down Sweet Chariot” has a long history predating Presley’s rendition. The exact origins of the spiritual are unknown, but it’s believed to be an adaptation of the even more famous gospel song “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot”. Traditionally, these songs spoke of longing for the afterlife and the hope of heavenly deliverance.
Steve Sholes, a producer who frequently collaborated with Presley on his gospel recordings, helmed the recording of “Swing Down Sweet Chariot” in 1960 at RCA’s Nashville studios. Sholes was known for his ability to capture the raw energy and sincerity of Presley’s gospel performances.
Presley’s version of “Swing Down Sweet Chariot” differs from the traditional spirituals in a few key ways. The tempo is noticeably faster, creating a more upbeat and energetic feel. Presley’s powerful vocals soar over the soulful backing track, provided by the Jordanaires, a gospel quartet who frequently served as Presley’s backup singers. Presley’s charismatic delivery infuses the song with a new energy, while still retaining the spiritual core of the original.
“Swing Down Sweet Chariot” was a hit with fans and became a staple of Presley’s live performances. His electrifying renditions of the song showcased his incredible vocal range and his deep connection to gospel music. While the song itself didn’t achieve the chart success of some of Presley’s rock and roll hits, “Swing Down Sweet Chariot” endures as a testament to his versatility as a musician and his enduring love for gospel music. The song’s lasting popularity lies in Presley’s ability to take a familiar spiritual and breathe new life into it, creating a version that resonated with both gospel fans and his regular audience.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Swing Down Sweet Chariot”
Why don’t you swing down sweet chariot
Stop and let me ride
Swing down chariot
Stop and let me ride
Rock me lord, rock me lord
Calm and easy
Well I’ve got a home on the other sideWhy don’t you swing down sweet chariot
Stop and let me ride
Swing down chariot
Stop and let me ride
Rock me lord, rock me lord
Calm and easy
Well I’ve got a home on the other sideWell, well, well, well, well, wellEzekial went down in the middle of a field
He saw an angel workin’ on a chariot wheel
Wasn’t so particular ’bout the chariot wheel
Just wanted to see how a chariot feelWhy don’t you swing down sweet chariot
Stop and let me ride
Swing down chariot
Stop and let me ride
Rock me lord, rock me lord
Calm and easy
Well I’ve got a home on the other sideWell, well, well Ezekial went down and he got on board
Chariot went a bumpin’ on down the road
Zeke wasn’t so particular ’bout the bumpin’ of the road
Just wanted to lay down his heavy loadWhy don’t you swing down sweet chariot
Stop and let me ride
Swing down chariot
Stop and let me ride
Rock me lord, rock me lord
Calm and easy
Well I’ve got a home on the other sideWell I got a father in the promised land
Ain’t no more stoppin’ till I shake his hand
Rock me lord, rock me lord
Calm and easy
I’ve got a home on the other sideWhy don’t you swing down sweet chariot
Stop and let me ride
Swing down chariot
Stop and let me ride
Rock me lord, rock me lord
Calm and easy
Well I’ve got a home on the other side