“Put Your Hand in the Hand” is a powerful and deeply devotional song recorded by the legendary Elvis Presley. Released in 1971, the track is a sincere and impassioned exploration of religious faith and the transformative power of belief.
The lyrics, written by Gene MacLellan, are a poetic and evocative expression of the speaker’s personal relationship with God, as they reach out in a gesture of trust and surrender. Presley’s emotive vocals convey a sense of humility, reverence, and unwavering conviction, as he invites the listener to join him in this profound spiritual journey.
Musically, “Put Your Hand in the Hand” is a lush and harmonically rich ballad that showcases Presley’s impressive vocal range and his ability to infuse a song with deep emotional resonance. The rich, gospel-influenced arrangements, complete with a choir and a powerful instrumental accompaniment, provide a grand and majestic backdrop for Presley’s performance, elevating the spiritual and devotional nature of the lyrics.
What makes this song so compelling is the way it taps into the deep-rooted spiritual beliefs that were so integral to Presley’s personal and artistic identity. His interpretation is a sincere and heartfelt expression of his own faith, infusing the track with a palpable sense of authenticity and conviction that resonates powerfully with listeners of all religious backgrounds.
In the decades since its release, “Put Your Hand in the Hand” has endured as a beloved and respected entry in Presley’s vast and influential discography, celebrated for its spiritual depth, its technical mastery, and its ability to inspire and uplift listeners. The song stands as a testament to Presley’s enduring legacy as not only a musical icon, but also a deeply spiritual and introspective artist who was unafraid to explore the profound mysteries of the human experience.