Introduction:
Where Could I Go But to the Lord, a stirring gospel song, holds a special place in the vast repertoire of the iconic Elvis Presley. Released in 1957, the track stands out amidst Presley’s rock and roll hits, showcasing his incredible vocal range and deep emotional connection to the material. While the origins of the song remain somewhat hazy, it is believed that it was originally intended for a different artist altogether.
According to some accounts, the song was written for a gospel group called the Statesmen Quartet. However, when Presley, a devout Christian himself, laid down his vocals for Where Could I Go But to the Lord during a recording session for his album Love Me Tender, the power and conviction in his performance convinced everyone to keep it for himself. This decision proved to be a masterstroke. Love Me Tender, Presley’s second studio album, became a critical and commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. Where Could I Go But to the Lord, though not a single, became a beloved track on the album, thanks in part to Presley’s exceptional delivery.
The Southern gospel genre, characterized by its uplifting message of faith and its incorporation of elements like piano, bass, and soulful vocals, provided the perfect backdrop for Presley’s powerful voice. The lyrics of Where Could I Go But to the Lord delve into themes of faith, repentance, and seeking solace in God’s grace. Lines like “Living below the soul don’t live” and “Comfort can’t afford “ express a yearning for something more, a spiritual awakening. The song then pleads with a higher power, “Won’t you tell me where could I go?“, demonstrating a deep sense of vulnerability and dependence on faith.
Where Could I Go But to the Lord played a significant role in solidifying Presley’s image as a versatile performer. While he was already a burgeoning rock and roll star, this gospel track showcased his ability to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to transcend genre and resonate with listeners from all walks of life, a testament to Presley’s unparalleled charisma and his genuine connection to the spiritual themes explored in Where Could I Go But to the Lord.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Where Could I Go But To The Lord”
(from “Elvis (NBC TV Special)” soundtrack)
Hardly a comfort can afford
Striving alone to face temptation so
Now won’t you tell me
Where could I go but to the Lord
Where could I go oh where could I go
Seeking the refuge for my soul
Needing a friend to save me in the end
Won’t you tell me
Where could I go but to the Lord
Life here is grand with friends I love so dear
Comfort I get from God’s own word
Yet when I face that chilling hand of death
Won’t you tell me
Where could I go but to the Lord
Where could I go but to the Lord
Where could I go oh where could I go
Seeking the refuge for my soul
Needing a friend to save me in the end
Won’t you tell me
Where could I go but to the Lord