About the song
In 1974, **Elvis Presley**, the King of Rock and Roll, released a song that showcased a deeply personal and spiritual side of his artistry. “Why Me Lord” stands as one of the most profound and heartfelt pieces in his vast catalog. Written by Kris Kristofferson, the song is a poignant expression of self-reflection, seeking forgiveness, and grappling with one’s place in the world. This ballad speaks directly to the soul, capturing a vulnerability and sincerity that even Elvis, known for his larger-than-life persona, seldom revealed in his music.
For fans who were accustomed to Elvis’s upbeat, rock-infused tracks, “Why Me Lord” came as a stark contrast, yet it demonstrated a side of him that resonated deeply with listeners. The song’s sparse arrangement and the tender, almost mournful delivery by Elvis allow the listener to feel the weight of the questions he’s asking. His voice, rich with emotion and vulnerability, evokes a deep sense of yearning for redemption and understanding. There is a rawness in his delivery that is palpable and speaks to the universal struggle of finding one’s purpose in a chaotic world.
Lyrically, **”Why Me Lord”** is a song of humility and grace. It’s a plea for mercy, asking why the singer, despite his faults and shortcomings, has been chosen to receive grace and love. The simplicity of the words only amplifies their power, and the tone of the song captures the essence of existential questioning that so many people face at various points in life.
Though Elvis Presley was at the height of his fame in 1974, this track reveals a different side of the artist, one that was not driven by commercial success or public expectation, but rather by a profound need for spiritual solace and connection. It is an introspective moment in his otherwise glamorous career, offering listeners a chance to experience the man behind the legend in a deeply intimate way. For those who are familiar with his other works, **”Why Me Lord”** stands as a testament to the complexities of Elvis Presley—the man, the artist, and the seeker.
Video
Lyrics
(words & music by kris kristofferson)
(why me lord? what have i ever done
To deserve even one of the pleasures i’ve known
Tell me lord what did i ever do to deserve loving you
And the kindness you’ve shown)Lord heavenly jesus i praise him
So help me jesus i know what i am
Now that i know that i needed you so
Help me jesus, my soul’s in your hands(try me lord, if you think there’s a way i can ever repay
All i’ve taken from you
Forgive lord i can show someone else
What i’ve been through myself
On my way back to you)Lord heavenly jesus i praise him
So help me jesus i know what i am, oh yes!
Now that i know that i needed you so
Help me jesus my soul’s in your hands
Jesus my soul’s in your hands
