Introduction:
“If We Never Meet Again” is a gospel song recorded by Elvis Presley, released as part of his 1960 album His Hand in Mine. This album marked Presley’s first full-length foray into gospel music, showcasing his deep spiritual roots and love for gospel hymns. The song itself is a stirring rendition of a classic gospel tune originally written by Albert E. Brumley, a famed songwriter known for hymns like “I’ll Fly Away” and “Turn Your Radio On.”
Released in November 1960, His Hand in Mine was Presley’s sixth studio album and his first gospel LP. The album was produced by RCA Records and featured a variety of gospel standards, reflecting Presley’s upbringing in the Pentecostal church and his lifelong admiration for religious music. “If We Never Meet Again” fit seamlessly into this collection, emphasizing themes of faith, salvation, and the promise of an afterlife.
Musically, “If We Never Meet Again” exemplifies the gospel genre with its simple yet emotional arrangement. Presley’s powerful and heartfelt vocals are at the forefront, accompanied by a soft, traditional gospel backing. The song is meditative and hopeful, focusing on the idea of eternal reunion in heaven, a common theme in Southern gospel music.
While “If We Never Meet Again” did not become a chart-topping hit, His Hand in Mine was a commercial success and reached No. 13 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart. The album was later certified Platinum by the RIAA, underscoring its enduring popularity. Elvis’s contributions to gospel music were significant, and this album, along with his other gospel projects, earned him Grammy Awards for his religious recordings later in his career.
In many ways, “If We Never Meet Again” captures Elvis Presley’s ability to convey deep emotion and connect with his audience, not only through rock and roll but also through the deeply spiritual and personal genre of gospel music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“If We Never Meet Again”
Soon we’ll come to the end of life’s journey
And perhaps never meet anymore
Till we gather in heaven’s bright city
Far away on that beautiful shoreIf we never meet again this side of heaven
As we struggle through this world and its strife
There’s another meeting place somewhere in heaven
By the side of the river of lifeWhere the charming roses bloom forever
And where separations come no more
If we never meet again this side of heaven
I will meet you on that beautiful shore