About the song
Few songs capture the spirit of a nation quite like **“An American Trilogy”**, a powerful medley made famous by **Elvis Presley**. This stirring composition weaves together three deeply symbolic songs from different corners of American history: **“Dixie,” “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,”** and **“All My Trials.”** By blending these melodies, the song paints a poignant picture of the country’s past—its struggles, its triumphs, and the enduring hope that binds its people together.
When **Elvis Presley** introduced **“An American Trilogy”** into his live performances in the early 1970s, it quickly became one of the most dramatic and emotional moments of his shows. His commanding presence, rich baritone, and ability to convey deep feeling turned the medley into something larger than just a song—it became an anthem of unity and reflection. Though the medley was originally arranged by country artist **Mickey Newbury**, it was **Elvis’s** version that truly gave it life, elevating it to legendary status.
The song begins with **“Dixie,”** a melody that evokes the Old South, filled with nostalgia and longing. From there, it transitions into **“The Battle Hymn of the Republic,”** an uplifting and triumphant Civil War-era anthem. Finally, **“All My Trials”**—a traditional lullaby rooted in spirituals—closes the medley on a deeply emotional note, reinforcing themes of struggle and redemption.
What makes **Elvis’s** rendition so unforgettable is not just his vocal mastery, but also the grand orchestral arrangements that accompanied him, particularly in his Las Vegas performances and the famed **Aloha from Hawaii** concert. The way he builds the song from a quiet, reflective opening to a thunderous, almost operatic climax is a testament to his ability to hold an audience spellbound.
Even today, **“An American Trilogy”** remains a stirring reminder of America’s complex history, sung with the kind of passion only **Elvis Presley** could deliver. It’s more than just a performance—it’s a journey through the heart of a nation.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, I wish I was in the land of cotton
Old things they are not forgotten
Look away, look away, look away Dixieland
Oh, I wish I was in Dixie, away, away
In Dixieland I take my stand to live and die in Dixie
‘Cause Dixieland, that’s where I was born
Early Lord one frosty morning
Look away, look away, look away Dixieland
Glory, glory hallelujah
Glory, glory hallelujah
Glory, glory hallelujah
His truth is marching on
So hush little baby
Don’t you cry
You know your daddy’s bound to die
But all my trials, Lord, will soon be over
Glory, glory hallelujah
His truth is marching on
His truth is marching on
