Introduction:
Elvis Presley recorded the soulful gospel song “Somebody Bigger Than You and I” on May 27, 1966, at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, for his 1967 album How Great Thou Art. This album marked a significant shift, highlighting Elvis’s deep-rooted passion for gospel music and his ability to express it with profound emotion. Originally written by Johnny Lange, Hy Heath, and Sonny Burke, the song was first popularized by Mahalia Jackson, but Elvis’s rendition added his unique style, featuring rich vocals complemented by a fuller, layered instrumental arrangement.
In this recording, Presley was joined by his regular band members and an exceptional line-up of session musicians, including guitarist Scotty Moore, pianist Floyd Cramer, and saxophonist Boots Randolph. Background harmonies were provided by the Imperials and the Jordanaires, two groups that frequently collaborated with Elvis, adding warmth and depth to the track. His arrangement is softer and more introspective than previous versions, leaning into his baritone’s gentle resonance, which effectively captures the song’s spiritual theme.
The album How Great Thou Art went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance, underscoring both its commercial and critical success. For Elvis, this song, along with others on the album, was not just a commercial endeavor but a sincere expression of faith and spirituality, which remained an important part of his life and career. His performance of “Somebody Bigger Than You and I” is often praised for its sincerity and the way it encapsulates his commitment to gospel music as a means of personal and artistic expression. This track, along with the entire album, is celebrated as one of his finest contributions to gospel music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Somebody Bigger Than You And I”
Who made the rivers flow to the sea
And who sends the rain when the earth is dry
Somebody bigger than you and IWho made the flowers to bloom in the spring
Who made the song for the robins to sing
And who hung the moon and the stars in the sky
Somebody bigger than you and I
He lights the way when the road is long
He keeps you company
And with His love to guide you
He walks beside you
Just like He walks with me
When we’re filled with despair
Who gives me courage to go from there
And who gives me faith that will never die
Somebody bigger than you and I