The Gospel Side of Elvis

by: Joe Moscheo

Published by: Hachette Book Group USA

Reviewed by Steven King, MBA

Sometimes legends are formed by the simplest acts of kindness. It is common knowledge that Elvis Presley paid $3.98 to record two songs as a present for his mother’s birthday. Anyone at that studio would have never guessed that this simple boy from Memphis, Tennesee, would one day be called The King of Rock-n-Roll.

Elvis rocketed to stardom and his physical antics on stage are fodder for hundreds of impersonators today. Popular Elvis songs readily come to mind: Hound Dog, Jailhouse Rock, and Love Me Tender can still be heard on the airwaves today. Too few seek to understand the greatest influence in this cultural icon’s life: his insatiable love for gospel music.

Joe Moscheo, a member of the Imperials who sang as back-up for Elvis for four years, introduces Elvis as profoundly impacted by gospel music in The Gospel Side of Elvis. Moscheo portrays a Elvis as a man who would listen to a gospel recording perhaps 100 times to understand the musical intricacies. During a performance Elvis might ask his back-up singers to sing a gospel song a cappella, and have the audience bow their heads in submission. Frequently, after a performance, Elvis would have all-night vigils in his suite where gospel songs would be sung until early morning hours.

It is refreshing to read a work that strives to paint Elvis as an accomplished musician instead of capitalizing on his faults. This book is remarkable at showing the depth to which Elvis sought to understand music. Christians, particularly those who watched some of Elvis’ performances, will enjoy reading about the particular songs that had such an impact on Elvis: such as, How Great Thou Art.

If you enjoy Elvis’ legacy – you will enjoy this book. If you are a Gospel music fan who enjoys Elvis’ legacy – you will LOVE this book.

Armchair Interviews says: Wonderful look at a different Elvis.

Author’s Web site: http://www.JoeMoscheo.net