The Backup Singer Who Swore She Saw A Soft Light Around Him During “How Great Thou Art.”

April 8, 2025

The summer of 1970 was hot, even in Las Vegas, where the sun poured down like a relentless spotlight on the bustling Strip. Inside the International Hotel, the air was thick with anticipation as a crowd eagerly awaited the legendary Elvis Presley to take the stage. He was already a musical icon, known for his electrifying performances and heart-melting voice. But for one backup singer named Mary, this particular night would become a memory etched into her soul forever.

As the curtains parted and the spotlight hit Elvis, Mary felt a wave of excitement wash over her. She had admired him from afar, watching him pour his heart into every note, and tonight she was right there alongside him, her harmonies blending perfectly with his soaring vocals. Then, as they began to sing “How Great Thou Art,” something extraordinary happened. As she watched him perform, a soft light seemed to surround him, glowing gently like the first rays of dawn breaking through a dark night. It was as if he was not just a man, but a beacon of hope and love, transporting everyone in the audience to a higher place.

Mary couldn’t help but feel that this moment was magical. The way Elvis sang about faith and the beauty of the world resonated deeply within her. She remembered how he had faced many struggles over the years—his battles with fame, personal demons, and the overwhelming pressure of being a star. But here, in this moment, he was filled with a warmth that drove away all shadows. Mary felt compelled to sing with all her might, pouring her heart into every word, as if they were crafting a bridge connecting the spirit of Elvis to each person in the packed auditorium.

When the final note faded and the audience erupted into thunderous applause, Mary felt a swell of gratitude. That brief moment of light around Elvis seemed to symbolize the power of music to heal and uplift. It was a reminder of how important it was to share one’s passion with the world, even when personal struggles threatened to overshadow it. For Elvis, this performance was not just another show; it represented resilience and the enduring power of hope. After that night, he would continue to embrace his faith through his music, reminding his fans and himself about the beauty that exists even in hard times.

As the years passed, Mary looked back on that night with a smile, knowing that she had witnessed something truly special. Elvis would go on to inspire countless people with his music, but for her, it was that soft light that remained in her heart, a guiding force through her own challenges. She never forgot how he transformed in that moment, showing her the strength of vulnerability and the importance of faith. Mary continued to sing, to inspire others, and to share her story, forever grateful for the night she stood alongside a legend who shone brighter than anyone she had ever known.