Introduction
Elvis Presley’s 1967 gospel masterpiece “Where Could I Go But To The Lord” wasn’t just a hymn; it was a deeply personal expression of faith and vulnerability. Written by gospel songwriter James B. Coats, the song resonated deeply with Elvis, mirroring his own internal struggles and eventual spiritual reawakening.
In the early 60s, Elvis’s career was in flux. He’d served in the army, transitioned to Hollywood films, and navigated a changing musical landscape. Through it all, questions of purpose and direction swirled. The song’s lyrics mirrored this internal turmoil: “Where could I go, where could I hide, when the storm of doubt is raging inside?”
But amidst the darkness, “Where Could I Go But To The Lord” offers a glimmer of hope. It acknowledges the human need for solace and guidance, finding it ultimately in the arms of a higher power. The chorus soars with a powerful affirmation: “Where could I go but to the Lord, who’s always been there for me? When the world turns its back on me, He’s waiting with open arms.”
Elvis’s own journey of faith played a crucial role in shaping the song’s meaning. Raised in a Pentecostal household, he’d strayed from his religious roots during his early career. However, in the mid-60s, he experienced a profound spiritual reawakening, immersing himself in gospel music and finding solace in its message of hope and redemption.
This personal transformation fueled his performance of “Where Could I Go But To The Lord.” His voice, raw and brimming with emotion, delivers the lyrics with a lived-in authenticity that transcends mere vocal prowess. It’s a plea, a confession, and a testament to the power of faith in overcoming life’s storms.
So, let the rich tones of Elvis’s voice wash over you as you delve into “Where Could I Go But To The Lord.” It’s not just a song; it’s a journey of introspection, a cry for solace, and a celebration of the enduring power of faith, a message that resonates as powerfully today as it did when Elvis first poured his heart into its verses.
Video
Lyrics
Living below in this old sinful world
Hardly a comfort can afford
Striving alone to face temptation so
Now won’t you tell meWhere 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 LordLife 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 LordWhere 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