Introduction:
Unveiling Elvis’ “I, John”: A Gospel Gem
There seems to be a cloud of mystery surrounding Elvis Presley’s song “I, John.” While not a chart-topping hit or a household name among his popular tunes, “I, John” holds a special place for its unique origin and glimpse into Elvis’ faith.
Here’s what we can glean about the song’s history:
Gospel Roots: “I, John” isn’t an original Elvis Presley composition. It appears to be an adaptation of a gospel song titled “I, John Saw a Mighty Number,” recorded by The Mighty Faith Singers in 1962.
Informal Recording: Unlike Elvis’ usual studio sessions, “I, John” was recorded during an informal gospel session in 1972. This session, captured for the documentary “Elvis on Tour,” showcased a more intimate and spiritual side of the King.
Unreleased Treasure: The recording of “I, John” wasn’t officially released for the general public. However, dedicated fans can find it on bootleg recordings or through unofficial channels.
The lack of commercial release shouldn’t diminish the significance of “I, John.” It offers a rare glimpse into Elvis’ gospel roots and his personal connection to his faith. Elvis was raised in a Pentecostal household and gospel music remained a constant influence throughout his career. Songs like “How Great Thou Art” and “He Touched Me” stand as testaments to this.
“I, John” serves as a reminder that even at the height of his rock and roll fame, Elvis never strayed far from his gospel foundation. This informal recording offers a chance to hear Elvis in a raw and unpolished form, channeling his powerful vocals towards a song of faith and inspiration.