Introduction:
“Put Your Hand in the Hand” is a gospel-pop song with a powerful message of faith and redemption. While the song is most notably associated with the Canadian band Ocean, who had a significant hit with it in 1971, it was also recorded by Elvis Presley, adding his unique vocal style and interpretation to the song’s legacy.
The song was written by Canadian songwriter Gene MacLellan, who also penned other well-known songs like “Snowbird.” The first recorded version of “Put Your Hand in the Hand” was by Canadian singer Anne Murray in 1970, on her third studio album, Honey, Wheat and Laughter. However, her label, Capitol Records, didn’t initially see the song as a single, which led to Ocean’s version becoming the breakthrough hit.
Ocean’s version of “Put Your Hand in the Hand” was released as their debut single and the title track of their debut album, also in 1971. It achieved considerable commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it was kept from the top spot by “Joy to the World” by Three Dog Night. The song’s popularity extended beyond the pop charts, as it also reached No. 4 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Ocean’s recording was particularly impactful, and it’s this version that truly propelled the song into the mainstream and made it a widely recognized gospel-pop anthem. The success of Ocean’s version also led to the song being inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2006.
Elvis Presley recorded “Put Your Hand in the Hand” on June 8, 1971, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee. This recording session was part of a period where Elvis was deeply involved with gospel music, a genre that had been a significant part of his musical upbringing and career. Elvis’s connection to gospel music was profound, and he often incorporated it into his live performances and studio recordings throughout his career.
Elvis’s version of “Put Your Hand in the Hand” was first released on his 1972 album Elvis Now. Elvis Now is an album that showcases a variety of styles, including pop, country, and gospel. It was released by RCA Records and highlighted Elvis’s vocal versatility and his continued ability to interpret diverse musical material. While the album itself wasn’t one of Elvis’s biggest commercial successes, it contains several noteworthy tracks, and “Put Your Hand in the Hand” stands out as a powerful gospel-infused performance.
Elvis Presley’s interpretation of “Put Your Hand in the Hand” brings his characteristic passion and vocal power to the song. His rendition emphasizes the song’s spiritual message, delivering a performance that is both heartfelt and dynamic. Backed by The Imperials Quartet, a renowned gospel group, Elvis infuses the song with a soulful energy that resonates with his fans. His version adds another layer to the song’s history, demonstrating its versatility and enduring appeal across different musical styles.
Elvis Presley, often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll,” was one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century. He achieved unprecedented success in music, film, and television, and his influence on popular culture is immeasurable. While primarily known for his rock and roll hits, Elvis’s musical talent spanned various genres, including gospel, country, blues, and pop. He had a deep and abiding love for gospel music, which is evident in his numerous gospel recordings and performances.
In summary, “Put Your Hand in the Hand” is a song written by Gene MacLellan that became a hit for Ocean in 1971. Elvis Presley recorded his version of the song in 1971, and it was released on his 1972 album Elvis Now. Elvis’s rendition, while rooted in gospel, showcases his signature vocal style and passionate delivery. The song’s enduring message of faith and hope has resonated with audiences across different genres and generations, and it remains a beloved gospel-pop classic.