Introduction:
Elvis’s rendition of “If The Lord Wasn’t Walking By My Side” stands out for its raw emotional delivery and the heartfelt conviction that Presley brings to the performance. Written by renowned gospel songwriter Henry Slaughter, the song conveys a powerful message of gratitude and faith, expressing the idea that one’s life would be drastically different, perhaps more challenging or lost, without divine guidance. Slaughter was known for his work with various gospel quartets, including The Imperials, and his songwriting often carried a message of spiritual reflection and devotion.
The song’s release came at a time when Elvis was experiencing a career resurgence in the late 1960s, particularly with his gospel recordings. How Great Thou Art won the Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance in 1967, establishing Presley not only as a rock and roll icon but also as a respected gospel singer. This album became a commercial success and helped Presley reconnect with his spiritual roots and a segment of his fan base that appreciated his gospel work. His performances of gospel music, including this song, were widely praised for their sincerity and passion, demonstrating his ability to cross musical genres with authenticity and emotional depth.
“If The Lord Wasn’t Walking By My Side” showcases Elvis Presley’s versatility as a vocalist and his genuine affection for gospel music, which remained a significant and enduring aspect of his musical legacy. The song is often celebrated as a highlight of How Great Thou Art and a testament to Elvis’s belief that his music should always reflect a part of his own spiritual journey.
Video:
Lyrics:
“If The Lord Wasn’t Walking By My Side”
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side
When I was drifting (when I was drifting on the sea of a despair)
and I was wandering (I was wandering if Jehovah’s up there)
When Jesus found me,(Jesus found me in my sinful life)
he heard me praying (he heard me praying on my knees at night)
Now I’m singing (Now I’m singing this happy song)
because I’m happy (because I’m happy as I go along)
And I don’t know (I don’t know) just what I’d do
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side
What would I do, (What would I do when a tear fills my eyes)
what would I do (What would I do when it’s my time to die)
Well I’d be lonely, discouraged
Burdened on the way
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side every dayI’d be so friendless (I’d be friendless all alone and blue)
and I’d be helpless (I’d be helpless, wouldn’t know what to do)
And I don’t know (I don’t know) just what I’d do
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side
(What would I do) What would I do when the tears fill my eyes
(What would I do) What would I do when it’s my time to die
(I’d be lonely, discouraged, burdened on the way)
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side every day
I’d be so friendless, (I’d be friendless all alone and blue)
I’d be so helpless (I’d be helpless, wouldn’t know what to do)
And I don’t know (I don’t know) just what I’d do
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side every day
If the Lord (wasn’t walking) wasn’t walking by my side
(wasn’t walking by my side)