About The Song
In the realm of American music, few names resonate with the cultural impact and enduring legacy of Elvis Presley. The King of Rock and Roll, with his electrifying stage presence and soulful vocals, transcended musical genres and captivated audiences worldwide. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of fame and the allure of rock ‘n’ roll, Presley never strayed far from his deep-rooted faith, a testament to which is found in his moving gospel number, If the Lord Wasn’t Walking by My Side.
Released in 1967 as part of the album From Elvis in Memphis, If the Lord Wasn’t Walking by My Side stands as a poignant reflection on faith, resilience, and the unwavering presence of divine guidance in the face of life’s trials and tribulations. Presley’s emotive delivery, coupled with the song’s simple yet profound lyrics, strikes a chord with listeners, offering solace and hope in times of darkness.
The song opens with a gentle piano melody, setting the stage for Presley’s heartfelt vocals. His voice, imbued with a touch of weariness and vulnerability, conveys the weight of the singer’s struggles and the yearning for spiritual support. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of life’s challenges, from “temptations that surround me” to “troubles that come my way”. Yet, amidst these trials, Presley finds solace in the unwavering presence of God, singing:
“If the Lord wasn’t walking by my side I don’t know what I’d do I’d be lost without Him, I’d be lost without Him Walking by my side”
The chorus serves as a powerful affirmation of faith, a declaration of the unwavering belief in God’s guiding hand, even in the darkest of times. Presley’s voice soars with conviction as he sings of the Lord’s protective presence, offering a beacon of hope to those facing their own personal battles.
The song’s bridge provides a moment of reflection, acknowledging the human tendency to stray from the path of righteousness. Presley sings:
“I’ve wandered far and wide, I’ve strayed from time to time But the Lord has always brought me back in line”
This admission of human fallibility adds a layer of authenticity to the song, underscoring the universality of the struggles it addresses. It is a reminder that even in moments of weakness, God’s love and forgiveness remain constant.
If the Lord Wasn’t Walking by My Side culminates in a powerful reiteration of faith, with Presley declaring:
“I know I’ll make it home someday If the Lord just walks beside me”
This closing statement serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith, offering hope and reassurance that with God’s guidance, even the most challenging journeys can lead to ultimate salvation.
Elvis Presley’s If the Lord Wasn’t Walking by My Side stands as a timeless testament to the power of faith and the unwavering presence of God’s love in the face of life’s trials. Its message of hope and resilience resonates deeply with listeners, offering solace and strength to those navigating the complexities of life. Presley’s heartfelt vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics have cemented its place as a cherished gospel classic, a beacon of light for those seeking solace and guidance in the face of adversity.
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 dayI’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) 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 dayI’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 dayIf the Lord (wasn’t walking) wasn’t walking by my side
(wasn’t walking by my side)