The Verse He Read Aloud Before Every Studio Gospel Session: Psalm 100.

April 8, 2025

Elvis Presley sat alone in the dim light of the recording studio, his fingers tapping nervously against the cool surface of the microphone stand. It was the early 1960s, and he had already become a sensation, but there was always a part of him that felt uncertain. He glanced over at his bandmates, who were tuning their guitars and chatting amongst themselves, their laughter filling the room with a familiar warmth. It was in these moments, just before the magic of music began, that he found solace in the words of Psalm 100. Every time before a gospel session, Elvis would read it aloud, his voice steady and sure.

“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands,” he would begin, letting the words wash over him like a wave of peace. The Psalm reminded him of his roots, of the church where he first discovered the power of music. Growing up in Tupelo, Mississippi, he learned to sing at a young age, his voice soaring in the small Baptist church where his mother took him every Sunday. The joy he felt there stayed with him, a spark that ignited his passion for gospel music, which was the heartbeat of his soul.

As he read the Psalm, it wasn’t just a ritual; it was a reminder of why he loved music so much. It was a calling to share joy and uplift others through his voice. Elvis knew that music had the power to heal, to inspire, and to connect people from all walks of life. In a world that often felt divided, he wanted to be a uniting force—a “joyful noise” that brought smiles and hope. Each session, as he read those verses, his spirit would lift, banishing doubts and fears that threatened to creep in.

Gospel music was a place where Elvis truly felt at home. He poured his heart into each song, his powerful voice echoing the emotion he felt deep down. The lyrics resonated with him, telling stories of love, resilience, and faith. His sessions often attracted a mix of fans and music lovers, and the atmosphere transformed into something electric, filled with harmony and laughter. The more he embraced gospel, the more he realized it was his way of giving back to the world, leaving a lasting impact long after the last note faded.

Elvis’s passion for gospel music helped him navigate the tumultuous waters of fame. Through the years, as he faced challenges in his career and personal life, the Psalm remained a grounding force. Those lines reminded him that no matter how high he soared, he should remain humble and grateful. Each time he felt lost or overwhelmed, he would reflect on the words he had spoken aloud countless times before, and with renewed strength, he would continue to chase his dreams.

Ultimately, Elvis Presley transformed the music scene, leaving an indelible mark not just as the King of Rock and Roll but as an ambassador for gospel music. He shared his love for the genre with the world, inspiring generations to come. Psalm 100 became more than just a verse to him; it was a testament to his journey, a celebration of faith, and a reminder that music, in all its forms, has the power to uplift, heal, and bring joy—something Elvis dedicated his life to sharing with everyone who would listen.