Introduction:
“Seeing Is Believing” is a notable track in Elvis Presley’s extensive discography, reflecting his deep-rooted passion for gospel music. Released on April 3, 1972, as part of his Grammy Award-winning album “He Touched Me,” this song exemplifies Presley’s ability to infuse spiritual themes with contemporary musical elements. The track stands out not only for its uplifting message but also for its fusion of gospel and rock genres, showcasing Elvis’s versatility as an artist.
Recording and Production
The recording session for “Seeing Is Believing” took place on May 19, 1971, at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee. This period marked a prolific phase in Presley’s career, characterized by a series of sessions dedicated to gospel and inspirational music. The song was penned by Red West, a longtime friend and confidant of Elvis, and Glen Spreen, a respected songwriter and arranger. Their collaboration resulted in a composition that resonated with Elvis’s spiritual inclinations and musical sensibilities.
The production of the track was overseen by Felton Jarvis, who had been working with Elvis since the mid-1960s. Jarvis’s production approach aimed to capture the raw emotion and energy that Elvis brought to his gospel performances. The recording featured a lineup of seasoned musicians, including:
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Guitarists: James Burton and Chip Young, whose intricate playing added depth to the track.
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Bass: Norbert Putnam, providing a steady and soulful foundation.
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Drums: Jerry Carrigan and Kenneth Buttrey, delivering dynamic rhythms that propelled the song forward.
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Piano: David Briggs and Joe Moscheo, whose keyboard skills enriched the harmonic structure.
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Organ, Harmonica, and Percussion: Charlie McCoy, adding layers of texture to the arrangement.
The vocal harmonies were complemented by background vocalists Millie Kirkham, Temple Riser, Ginger Holladay, and members of The Imperials, a renowned gospel quartet. Their contributions provided a choral backdrop that elevated the spiritual essence of the song.
Musical Composition and Themes
“Seeing Is Believing” is characterized by its upbeat tempo and vibrant arrangement, blending elements of gospel fervor with rock-influenced instrumentation. The song’s structure follows a traditional verse-chorus pattern, allowing Elvis’s powerful vocals to convey the message with clarity and conviction.
Lyrically, the song emphasizes the theme of finding faith through the observation of the natural world. The opening lines, “Every time I see the sun rise, or a mountain that’s so high,” suggest that the beauty and majesty of creation serve as evidence of a higher power. This perspective aligns with the notion that personal experiences and the wonders of nature can reinforce one’s belief in the divine.
The chorus reinforces this sentiment with the affirmation, “Oh seeing, seeing, seeing is believing, and I see Him everywhere.” This line encapsulates the core message of the song: that faith can be reinforced through the tangible and observable aspects of the world around us.
Album Context and Reception
“He Touched Me,” the album featuring “Seeing Is Believing,” represents Elvis Presley’s third and final full-length gospel album. The album was a departure from his earlier gospel works, incorporating contemporary sounds and arrangements that resonated with the evolving musical landscape of the early 1970s. This modern approach to gospel music showcased Elvis’s ability to adapt and innovate within the genre.
The album achieved significant acclaim, earning Elvis his second Grammy Award for Best Inspirational Performance. This recognition underscored his profound impact on the gospel genre and his commitment to producing spiritually meaningful music. “He Touched Me” also performed well commercially, reflecting the enduring appeal of Elvis’s gospel recordings among a diverse audience.
Legacy and Impact
While “Seeing Is Believing” may not have been released as a standalone single, its inclusion in “He Touched Me” contributed to the album’s overall success and enduring legacy. The song has been featured in several compilations, including “Peace In The Valley – The Complete Gospel Recordings,” released on September 12, 2000. This collection aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of Elvis’s gospel contributions, highlighting tracks like “Seeing Is Believing” that exemplify his passion and talent within the genre.
The song’s message continues to resonate with listeners, offering a perspective on faith that is both accessible and profound. By drawing connections between everyday experiences and spiritual beliefs, “Seeing Is Believing” encourages individuals to find evidence of the divine in the world around them.
Conclusion
“Seeing Is Believing” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s dedication to gospel music and his ability to convey deep spiritual messages through his artistry. The song’s fusion of gospel and rock elements, combined with its uplifting lyrics, exemplifies Elvis’s unique approach to music-making. As part of the acclaimed “He Touched Me” album, the track contributes to a body of work that has left a lasting impact on both the gospel genre and Elvis’s musical legacy.