The Phrase He Often Wrote On Napkins: “God First. Then Song.”

April 8, 2025

Elvis Presley, known as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, had a unique way of expressing his beliefs and values. Among his many intriguing habits, one of the most touching was the phrase he often scribbled on napkins: “God first. Then song.” This simple statement revealed the heart and soul of a man who, despite his fame and fortune, never lost sight of what truly mattered. As he juggled the demands of stardom and the chaos that accompanied his life, those words became his guiding light.

In the early years of his career, when Elvis was just a rising star, the pressures to conform to the music industry’s expectations were intense. Even as he stood on stage in front of thousands, he sometimes felt lost in the glitz and glamour. Yet, whenever he faced a particularly challenging moment—whether it was the uncertainty of a new album or the relentless stress from his growing popularity—he would take a moment to breathe and remember his priorities. Writing “God first. Then song.” on a napkin was his way of grounding himself. It was a reminder that his talent was a gift and that he had a responsibility to use it for something greater than himself.

In 1956, as Elvis burst onto the music scene with hits like “Heartbreak Hotel,” he faced both adoration and backlash. Some critics dismissed him, claiming he was just a flash in the pan. But Elvis had resilience burning inside him. He drew strength from his faith, often reflecting on those words that had become a mantra for him. His music taught him to follow his heart and to share his passion with the world. Each performance was an opportunity not just to entertain but to connect deeply with his audience, spreading joy and inspiration through the power of song.

One night, after a particularly electrifying concert, Elvis sat backstage, exhausted yet exhilarated. He pulled out a napkin and wrote down his mantra again. He knew he had a rare gift—his music had the power to heal and uplift. As he glanced around at his bandmates, he understood that they were all in this together, and their shared love for music was a divine connection. Their commitment to putting God first allowed them to create something truly special, forging a bond that would last for years.

As his career soared, the phrase “God first. Then song.” reminded him to stay humble and focused. Over time, this philosophy extended beyond music; it affected how he treated others, including fans and fellow musicians. Elvis would often take time after concerts to meet fans, share stories, and sign autographs, always embodying the spirit of gratitude and kindness. His generosity and humility became part of his legacy, showing the world that true greatness comes from a loving heart.

In the end, Elvis Presley not only became a music legend but also an inspiration to countless people looking for their own paths. Those words he wrote on napkins weren’t just a personal motto; they were a life lesson in balancing passion with purpose. Through faith and unwavering dedication to his craft, Elvis showed that when you put God first and pour your heart into your passions, you can create magic that resonates through generations. His music, infused with love and soul, continues to remind us all of the beauty that arises from a life lived with purpose.