About The Song
You Gave Me A Mountain: A Soul-Stirring Performance by Elvis Presley
In the realm of music, there are certain artists who possess an undeniable charisma and stage presence that transcend the boundaries of time and genre. Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, stands as one such icon, his legacy etched into the annals of musical history. Among his vast repertoire of unforgettable songs, “You Gave Me A Mountain” holds a special place, particularly in its live rendition from the 1973 “Aloha From Hawaii” concert.
“You Gave Me A Mountain” is a poignant ballad penned by Marty Robbins, a renowned country music singer-songwriter. The song’s lyrics delve into the depths of human emotion, painting a vivid portrait of an individual grappling with the challenges and obstacles that life throws their way. The opening lines, “I thought I knew what love was, I thought I knew what pain was”, set the stage for a journey of self-discovery and emotional reckoning.
As the song progresses, the protagonist encounters a “mountain” – a metaphor for the trials and tribulations that life presents. The mountain appears insurmountable, a daunting obstacle that threatens to impede one’s progress. Yet, amidst the despair, a glimmer of hope emerges. The singer acknowledges that “God knows what He’s doing”, placing their trust in a higher power to guide them through the darkness.
The chorus of “You Gave Me A Mountain” serves as a powerful declaration of resilience and faith. “Ooh, this time, Lord you gave me a mountain, A mountain I may never climb, It isn’t a hill any longer, You gave me a mountain this time”. These lines resonate deeply, acknowledging the arduous nature of the challenges faced while simultaneously expressing a determination to persevere.
Elvis Presley’s delivery of “You Gave Me A Mountain” at the “Aloha From Hawaii” concert is nothing short of extraordinary. His voice, imbued with a raw emotion that cuts through the heart, perfectly captures the song’s essence. Presley’s performance is further enhanced by the lush accompaniment of the Joe Guercio Orchestra, their instrumentation adding depth and grandeur to the musical tapestry.
The “Aloha From Hawaii” concert marked a pivotal moment in Elvis Presley’s career. Broadcast live via satellite to over a billion viewers worldwide, the event showcased the King’s enduring popularity and his ability to captivate audiences on a global scale. “You Gave Me A Mountain” stands as a highlight of this historic performance, a testament to Presley’s artistry and his profound connection with his fans.
“You Gave Me A Mountain” is more than just a song; it is an anthem of resilience, a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Elvis Presley’s heartfelt rendition from the “Aloha From Hawaii” concert serves as a timeless reminder that even in the face of daunting challenges, hope and perseverance can prevail.
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Lyrics
Born in the heat of the desert
My mother died giving me life
Deprived of the love of a father
Blamed for the loss of his wife
You know Lord I’ve been in a prison
For something that I never done
It’s been one hill after another
I’ve climbed them all one by oneBut this time, Lord you gave me a mountain
A mountain you know I may never climb
It isn’t just a hill any longer
You gave me a mountain this timeMy woman got tired of heartaches
Tired of the grief and the strife
So tired of working for nothing
Just tired of being my wife
She took my one ray of sunshine
She took my pride and my joy
She took my reason for living
She took my small baby boyBut this time, Lord you gave me a mountain
A mountain you know I may never climb
It isn’t just a hill any longer
You gave me a mountain this time.