Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s song Promised Land is a lively rock and roll adaptation of a 1964 song by Chuck Berry. Berry wrote the original version while incarcerated, drawing on themes of optimism and adventure through a travelogue-style journey across the United States. In Presley’s version, recorded in December 1973 at Stax Studios in Memphis, the song took on a new intensity, combining country rock with his signature vocal power. Released as a single in 1974, Promised Land became a top hit on the country and Billboard charts, marking a significant late-career highlight for Elvis.
The song narrates a cross-country trek from Norfolk, Virginia, to California, echoing themes of liberation and hope, while capturing the energy and uncertainty of chasing dreams. The recording features James Burton on guitar, alongside other members of Presley’s seasoned band, bringing a unique Southern rock feel to Berry’s original upbeat melody. Fans of both rock and country music appreciated Presley’s interpretation, which solidified his ability to bridge musical styles even in the later stages of his career.
In the broader context of his career, Promised Land highlighted Presley’s return to more energetic and raw sounds after a period focused on ballads and movie soundtracks. The song was also part of his Promised Land album, reflecting his lasting appeal and adaptability in rock and roll, even as he faced personal and health challenges. This track remains an example of Presley’s talent for revitalizing and personalizing songs by other artists, capturing the spirit of a journey to a better place, the “promised land.”
Video:
Lyrics:
“Promised Land”
California on my mind
I straddled that Greyhound
And rode into Raleigh
And on across Caroline
We had motor trouble that turn into a struggle
Halfway across Alabam’
And that hound broke down and left us all stranded
In downtown Birmingham
Right away I brought me a through train ticket
Ridin’ across Mississippi clean
And I was on that midnight flyer out of Birmingham
Smoking into New Orleans
Somebody help me get out of Louisiana
Just to help me get to Houston Town
There are people there who care a little about me
And they won’t let the poor boy down
Sure as you’re born brought me a silk suit
Put luggage in my hand
And I woke up high over Alberquerque
On a jet to the promised land
Working on a T-bone steak a la carte
Flying over to the golden state
Ah when the pilot told us in thirteen minutes
He would set us at the terminal gate
Swing low chariot come down easy
Taxi to the terminal zone
Cut your engines and cool your wings
And let me make it to the telephone
Los Angeles give me Norfolk Virginia
Tidewater four ten o nine
Tell the folks back home this is the promised land calling
And the poor boy is on the line
Working on a T-bone steak a la carte
Flying over to the golden state
Ah when the pilot told us in thirteen minutes
He would set us at the terminal gate
Swing low chariot come down easy
Taxi to the terminal zone
Cut your engines and cool your wings
And let me make it to the telephone
Los Angeles give me Norfolk Virginia
Tidewater four ten o nine
Tell the folks back home this is the promised land calling
And the poor boy is on the line