About the song
Alright, folks, let’s take a little trip back in time, shall we? Back to the days when the King still reigned supreme, and the airwaves were filled with that unmistakable voice that could make hearts swoon and feet tap. We’re talking about **Elvis Presley**, of course, and one of his later, yet equally powerful, hits: “Promised Land.”
Now, “Promised Land” wasn’t just another song for Elvis; it was a journey, a musical road trip that took us from the bustling streets of New York City all the way down to the heart of the South, to that mythical “Promised Land.” Released in 1974, this track came at a time when Elvis was deep into his Las Vegas residency, a period often characterized by his elaborate jumpsuits and those legendary live performances. But amidst the glitz and glamour, “Promised Land” offered something more – a raw, almost gritty energy that harkened back to his rock ‘n’ roll roots.
The song itself, penned by the legendary Chuck Berry, tells the tale of a man determined to reach California, facing all sorts of comical travel woes along the way. It’s a story many of us can relate to, that yearning for a better place, a sense of hope that keeps us pushing forward, no matter the obstacles. Elvis’s rendition, however, elevated it to something truly special. He infused it with that signature blend of rockabilly, country, and soul, creating a sound that was uniquely his own.
What truly sets “Promised Land” apart is the sheer passion in Elvis’s vocals. You can hear the fire in his voice, the determination to reach that destination, that “Promised Land.” It’s a testament to his enduring talent, his ability to take a song and make it his own, to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level. And let’s not forget the backing band, those incredible musicians who laid down that driving rhythm, that infectious groove that makes it impossible to sit still.
So, whether you’re a lifelong Elvis fan or just discovering his music, “Promised Land” is a must-listen. It’s a reminder of the King’s enduring legacy, his ability to transcend genres and generations. It’s a song that speaks to the heart, that stirs the soul, and that reminds us that no matter how far we may roam, there’s always a “Promised Land” waiting for us.
Video
Lyrics
Aw, get on it
I left my home in Norfolk, Virginia, California on my mind
I straddled that Greyhound and rode him into Raleigh and on across Caroline
We had motor trouble that turned into a struggle halfway across Alabam’
Well, that ‘hound broke down and left us all stranded in downtown Birmingham
Right away, I bought me a thorough train ticket right across Mississippi clean
I was on that midnight flyer out of Birmingham, Smokin’ into New Orleans
Somebody help me get out of Louisiana, just help me get to Houston town
There are people there who care a little about me
And they won’t let the poor boy down, take it
Sure as you’re born, they bought me a silk suit, put luggage in my hand
And I woke up high over Albuquerque on a jet to the Promised Land
A-workin’ on a T-bone steak à la carte, flyin’ over to the Golden State
When the pilot told us in 13 minutes, he would set us at the terminal gate
Swin’ low, chariot, come down easy, Taxi to the terminal zone
Cut your engines and cool your wings and let me make it to the telephone
Los Angeles, get me Norfolk, Virginia, Tidewater 4-1009
Tell the folks back home this is the Promised Land callin’
And the poor boy is on the line
A-workin’ on a T-bone steak à la carte, flyin’ over to the Golden State
When the pilot told us in 13 minutes, he would set us at the terminal gate
Swin’ low, chariot, come down easy, Taxi to the terminal zone
Cut your engines and cool your wings and let me make it to the telephone
Los Angeles, give me Norfolk, Virginia, Tidewater 4-1009
Tell the folks back home this is the Promised Land callin’
And the poor boy is on the line
