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If the Lord Wasn’t Walking by My Side – Elvis Presley – 1967

About The Song

“If the Lord Wasn’t Walking by My Side” is a heartfelt gospel track by Elvis Presley that emphasizes his deep spiritual convictions. Featured on his gospel album “How Great Thou Art,” the song reflects Presley’s faith and his ability to convey sincere emotion through his music.

Facts:

  1. Release and Album: The song was released in 1967 as part of Elvis Presley’s gospel album titled “How Great Thou Art.” The album marked a significant return to his gospel roots and received critical acclaim, earning him a Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance.
  2. Songwriting Credits: “If the Lord Wasn’t Walking by My Side” was written by Scotty Wiseman. Elvis Presley’s rendition brought the song to a wider audience and demonstrated his ability to interpret and convey the depth of gospel compositions.
  3. Gospel Influence: Elvis Presley had a profound connection with gospel music throughout his career. This song, like many others in his repertoire, showcases his sincere approach to religious themes and the influence of gospel in shaping his musical style.
  4. Grammy Award: The album “How Great Thou Art,” which includes “If the Lord Wasn’t Walking by My Side,” won the Grammy Award for Best Sacred Performance in 1968. The recognition highlighted Presley’s success in the gospel genre.
  5. Legacy: The song continues to be celebrated as one of Elvis Presley’s significant contributions to gospel music. Its timeless appeal lies in Presley’s authentic delivery, combining his vocal prowess with a genuine expression of faith, making it a cherished piece among fans of his gospel work.

Video

Lyrics

I don’t know just what I’d do
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side
When I was drifting (when I was drifting on the sea of a despair)
And I was wandering (I was wandering if Jehovah’s up there)
When Jesus found me, (Jesus found me in my sinful life)
He heard me praying (he heard me praying on my knees at night)
Now I’m singing (Now I’m singing this happy song)
Because I’m happy (because I’m happy as I go along)
And I don’t know (I don’t know) just what I’d do
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side
What would I do, (What would I do when a tear fills my eyes)
What would I do (What would I do when it’s my time to die)
Well I’d be lonely, discouraged
Burdened on the way
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side every day

I’d be so friendless (I’d be friendless all alone and blue)
And I’d be helpless (I’d be helpless, wouldn’t know what to do)
And I don’t know (I don’t know) just what I’d do
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side

What would I do when the tears fill my eyes
(What would I do) What would I do when it’s my time to die
(I’d be lonely, discouraged, burdened on the way)
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side every day

I’d be so friendless, (I’d be friendless all alone and blue)
I’d be so helpless (I’d be helpless, wouldn’t know what to do)
And I don’t know (I don’t know) just what I’d do
If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side every day

If the Lord (wasn’t walking) wasn’t walking by my side
(wasn’t walking by my side)