About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Farther Along" is a poignant and spiritually resonant song that holds a special place in Elvis Presley's repertoire. Originally a traditional Christian hymn, Presley's rendition infuses the song with his trademark sincerity and passion, creating a rendition that transcends musical boundaries and speaks to the soul.
Released in 1966 as part of his gospel album "How Great Thou Art," "Farther Along" showcases Presley's deep connection to gospel music and his ability to convey profound emotions through his voice. The song's lyrics delve into themes of faith, perseverance, and the search for meaning in the face of life's trials and tribulations.
The opening chords of "Farther Along" set a somber and reflective tone, signaling to listeners that they are about to embark on a spiritual journey. As Presley's voice enters, there's a sense of reverence and humility that permeates the performance. His rich baritone resonates with sincerity, drawing listeners in and inviting them to contemplate the deeper meaning behind the lyrics.
At its core, "Farther Along" is a song of hope and redemption. The lyrics speak of the belief that, despite the hardships and challenges of life, there is a higher purpose and a greater plan at work. Presley's delivery captures the essence of this message, imbuing the song with a sense of reassurance and comfort.
One of the most striking aspects of Presley's rendition of "Farther Along" is his vocal performance. His voice soars effortlessly over the gentle instrumentation, conveying a range of emotions from longing and doubt to faith and acceptance. Presley's ability to convey these complex emotions with such authenticity is a testament to his talent as a vocalist and interpreter of songs.
The arrangement of "Farther Along" is simple yet powerful, allowing Presley's voice to take center stage. The gentle strumming of the guitar and the subtle harmonies provide a delicate backdrop for his vocals, enhancing the emotional impact of the song without overwhelming the listener. The sparse instrumentation allows the lyrics to shine, underscoring the message of hope and perseverance contained within them.
In many ways, "Farther Along" is emblematic of Presley's deep-rooted connection to gospel music. Throughout his career, he often returned to his gospel roots, finding solace and inspiration in the spiritual themes and uplifting melodies of these songs. "How Great Thou Art," the album on which "Farther Along" appears, is widely regarded as one of Presley's most powerful and heartfelt recordings, showcasing his reverence for gospel music and his unwavering faith.
The success of "Farther Along" reaffirmed Presley's status as a masterful interpreter of gospel music and earned him critical acclaim from both fans and music critics alike. The song resonated with audiences around the world, transcending cultural and religious boundaries to touch the hearts of listeners from all walks of life.
Beyond its commercial success, "Farther Along" remains a timeless and deeply moving piece of music. Its message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with listeners, offering comfort and inspiration in times of hardship and uncertainty. Presley's rendition of the song stands as a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time and a true pioneer of gospel music.
In conclusion, "Farther Along" is a powerful and spiritually resonant song that showcases Elvis Presley's talent as a vocalist and interpreter of gospel music. His heartfelt rendition of the song captures the essence of its message, offering listeners a message of hope and redemption in the face of life's challenges. As with many of Presley's gospel recordings, "Farther Along" continues to inspire and uplift audiences, reaffirming its place as a classic in the pantheon of gospel music.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
Tempted and tried we're oft' made to wonder
Why it should be thus all the day long
While there are others living about us
Never molested, though in the wrong
Farther along we'll know more about it
Farther along we'll understand why
Cheer up my brother, live in the sunshine
We'll understand it all by and by
When death has come and taken our loved ones
Leaving our homes so lonely and drear
Then do we wonder how others prosper
Living so wicked year after year
Farther along we'll know more about it
Farther along we'll understand why
Cheer up my brother, live in the sunshine
We'll understand it all by and by