Introduction:
“It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)” is a gospel song that became widely known through Elvis Presley’s heartfelt rendition, reflecting his deep-rooted connection to gospel music. The song was written by songwriter and gospel musician Stuart Hamblen, and its creation story is as moving as the song itself. Known as a Western film actor and one of radio’s original “singing cowboys,” Hamblen was also a part of the Hollywood social scene. However, after a period of personal struggles, he underwent a spiritual transformation following a Billy Graham revival meeting in the late 1940s. His newfound faith inspired him to write “It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)” in 1950, encapsulating a message of hope, redemption, and God’s boundless grace.
Hamblen’s song quickly found favor within the gospel music community and gained even more prominence after Presley chose to perform it. Presley’s gospel influence can be traced back to his upbringing in Tupelo, Mississippi, where he attended the Assembly of God Church. Gospel music remained a constant comfort to him throughout his career, often a sanctuary from the pressures of fame. Elvis recorded the song in January 1957 at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, as part of his gospel collection Peace in the Valley, which would appear as an EP released by RCA Records later that year.
Presley’s interpretation of “It Is No Secret” is marked by a soulful sincerity, lending the song a resonant quality that emphasized his personal connection to the material. His version contributed to the popularization of gospel music in mainstream culture and highlighted the genre’s significance within his discography. Presley’s ability to convey both the humility and emotional intensity of gospel music not only showcased his vocal talents but also his reverence for the genre.
“It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)” holds an important place in Elvis’s catalog, reminding listeners of his deep spiritual inclinations and his desire to express them publicly through music. His version added a unique blend of gospel fervor and mainstream appeal, bridging the gap between secular and sacred audiences. This song, among others in his gospel repertoire, is often regarded as a testament to his faith and remains a cherished part of his legacy in music, exemplifying his lifelong connection to the themes of hope, grace, and redemption that gospel music so powerfully conveys.