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Introduction:

“Run On” is a compelling gospel track by Elvis Presley, recorded in 1966 and released on his 1967 album How Great Thou Art. This song, also known by titles like “God’s Gonna Cut You Down,” is a traditional folk spiritual with roots tracing back to early American gospel music. Its lyrics deliver a strong moral message, warning of divine judgment for sinful actions. Presley’s rendition stands out for its powerful vocals and rhythmic intensity, which blend rock and gospel influences—a signature of his musical style during this period.

The recording session for “Run On” took place at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville. Presley was supported by an accomplished ensemble, including his longtime guitarist Scotty Moore and pianist Floyd Cramer. Gospel groups The Jordanaires and The Imperials provided backing vocals, adding depth and soul to the track. Producer Felton Jarvis, who worked on many of Presley’s recordings in the ’60s, played a significant role in shaping the song’s dynamic arrangement, which uses a brisk tempo and energetic instrumentation to emphasize the song’s themes of urgency and redemption.

Presley’s performance on “Run On” is notable for its vigor, showcasing his unique ability to infuse gospel songs with a sense of personal conviction and emotional depth. The song reflects his ongoing passion for gospel music, a genre he deeply cherished throughout his career. How Great Thou Art received critical acclaim and won Presley his first Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance in 1967, cementing the album’s place as one of his most respected works in the gospel genre. “Run On” remains a fan favorite for its powerful message and Presley’s unforgettable vocal delivery.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Run On”

Well you may run on for a long time
Run on for a long time,
Run on for a long time
Let me tell you God almighty gonna cut you downGo tell that long tongued liar, oh well well
Go tell that midnight rider, oh well well
Tell the gambler, rambler, back-biter
Tell them God almighty gonna cut them down

Stop God almighty let me tell you the news
My head’s been wet with the midnight dews
Coming down on my bended knees
Talking to the man from Galilee
My God spoke and he spoke so sweet
I thought I heard the shuffle of angel’s feet
He put one hand upon my head
Great God almighty let me tell you what he said

Go tell that long tongued liar, oh well well
Go tell that midnight rider, oh well well
Tell the gambler, rambler, back-biter
Tell them God almighty gonna cut them down

Run on for a long time,
Run on for a long time,
Let me tell you God almighty gonna cut you down

You may throw your rock and hide your hand
Working in the dark against your fellow man
As sure as God made the day and the night
What you do in the dark will be brought to the light
You may run and hide, slip and slide
Trying to take the mote from your neighbour’s eyes
As sure as God made the rich and poor
You gonna reap just what you sow

Run on for a long time,
Run on for a long time
Let me tell you God almighty gonna cut you down
Go tell that long tongued liar, oh well well
Go tell that midnight rider, oh well well
Tell the gambler, rambler, back-biter
Tell them God almighty gonna cut them down

Some people go to church just to sit in the fire
Trying to make a date with the neighbour’s wife
Brother let me tell you as sure as you’re born
You better leave that woman alone
Because one of these days mark my word
You think that brother is going to work
And you’ll sneak up and knock on that door
That’s all brother you’ll knock no more

Run on for a long time,
Run on for a long time
Let me tell you God almighty gonna cut you down
Go tell that long tongued liar, oh well well
Go tell that midnight rider, oh well well
Tell the gambler, rambler, back-biter
Tell them God almighty gonna cut them down