Introduction:
“Put Your Hand in the Hand” is a gospel-influenced song that has resonated with audiences across generations. While it’s most famously associated with Elvis Presley, the song’s journey began with Canadian singer-songwriter Gene MacLellan. MacLellan, known for his folk and country style, wrote the song in the late 1960s, and it was first released by his then wife, Anne Murray, in 1969. However, it was Elvis Presley’s powerful rendition in 1971 that catapulted the song to international fame and cemented its place in music history.
Elvis Presley’s version of “Put Your Hand in the Hand” was recorded on June 8, 1971, at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee. It was a time when Elvis was exploring his spiritual side, and this song fit perfectly with his evolving musical interests. The recording session featured a stellar lineup of musicians, including James Burton on guitar, Norbert Putnam on bass, and The Imperials, a renowned gospel quartet, providing backing vocals. The result was a soulful and uplifting performance that showcased Elvis’s vocal prowess and his deep connection to the song’s message.
“Put Your Hand in the Hand” was released on Elvis’s album “Elvis Now” in 1972. The album, which featured a mix of ballads, rock and roll, and gospel songs, demonstrated Elvis’s versatility as an artist. “Put Your Hand in the Hand” quickly became a fan favorite, and it has since been included in numerous Elvis compilations and soundtracks. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message of faith, hope, and redemption.
The lyrics of “Put Your Hand in the Hand” are simple yet profound. The song encourages listeners to seek guidance and strength from a higher power, to “put your hand in the hand of the man from Galilee.” The imagery of stilling the water and calming the sea evokes a sense of peace and tranquility, suggesting that by placing our trust in something greater than ourselves, we can overcome life’s challenges. The song’s message is universal and transcends religious boundaries, making it accessible to people of all faiths and backgrounds.
Elvis Presley’s interpretation of “Put Your Hand in the Hand” is marked by his signature vocal style and his heartfelt delivery. His voice conveys a sense of sincerity and conviction, making the song’s message all the more powerful. The backing vocals by The Imperials add a rich layer of harmony, enhancing the song’s spiritual feel. Elvis’s performance is both soulful and uplifting, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and inspiration.
“Put Your Hand in the Hand” remains a beloved classic in Elvis Presley’s repertoire. Its message of faith and hope continues to resonate with audiences, and its musical arrangement is both timeless and uplifting. The song stands as a testament to Elvis’s ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level, and it serves as a reminder of the power of music to inspire and uplift the human spirit.