“A prayer sung by Elvis that reveals his deepest faith, sensitivity, and devotion”
Introduction
The song “Angel” holds a special place within the lesser-known yet deeply moving repertoire of Elvis Presley. Recorded on July 1, 1961, and officially released on April 16, 1962, this spiritually charged ballad was issued on the RCA Victor extended play Follow That Dream, catalog number 45 EP EPA-4368.
Far removed from the rock and roll sound that made him a global icon, “Angel” presents Elvis as an introspective, devout, and emotionally sincere artist, deeply connected to gospel music—the genre he consistently described as the most important of his life.
Song Details
- Title: Angel
- Artist: Elvis Presley
- Songwriters: Sid Tepper & Roy C. Bennett
- Recording date: July 1, 1961
- Release date: April 16, 1962
- Original format: Extended Play (EP)
- EP title: Follow That Dream
- Record label: RCA Victor
- Catalog number: 45 EP EPA-4368
- Genre: Ballad / Gospel pop
- Length: approx. 2:20
- Producer: Steve Sholes
The Follow That Dream EP (1962)
“Angel” was released on the EP Follow That Dream, issued by RCA Victor as a musical companion to the film of the same name starring Elvis Presley.
EP track listing:
- Follow That Dream
- Angel
- What a Wonderful Life
- I’m Not the Marrying Kind
During the early 1960s, EPs were especially popular, particularly in international markets, and often served as a way to release songs that did not always appear on full-length albums.
Historical and Personal Context
In the early 1960s, Elvis Presley was already firmly established as both a film star and a recording artist. Behind the public image, however, stood a man deeply shaped by faith, raised on hymns and gospel singing.
At this stage of his life:
- Elvis frequently sang gospel music informally
- He considered gospel his favorite musical genre
- He sought spiritual balance following his military service
“Angel” reflects this personal period—simple, heartfelt, and filled with quiet conviction.
The Recording: Simplicity and Emotion
Recorded on July 1, 1961, in Nashville, “Angel” stands out for its restrained and elegant production, designed to keep Elvis’s voice at the center.
Musical characteristics:
- Soft piano accompaniment
- Gentle, almost ethereal backing vocals
- Slow, reverent tempo
- A controlled yet deeply emotional vocal delivery
Elvis sings with humility and sincerity, allowing the spiritual message to resonate without embellishment.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of “Angel” function as a musical prayer, with the narrator calling upon an angel for protection, guidance, and comfort.
The angel can be interpreted as:
- A religious symbol
- A manifestation of faith
- An inner source of hope and reassurance
The strength of the song lies in its simplicity, offering peace rather than drama.
Importance Within Elvis Presley’s Discography
Although “Angel” was never released as a hit single, it has gained significant appreciation over time among dedicated fans and collectors.
Its importance lies in the fact that it:
- Reflects Elvis’s deep spirituality
- Demonstrates his lifelong connection to gospel music
- Reveals a vulnerable and introspective side of the artist
It is a song that helps listeners understand the man behind the legend.
Reception and Legacy
At the time of its release, “Angel” received little mainstream attention, overshadowed by more commercial material. Over the years, however, it has been re-evaluated as a hidden gem in Elvis Presley’s catalog.
Today, it is valued by:
- Collectors of original RCA EPs
- Fans interested in Elvis’s spiritual recordings
- Biographical studies focusing on his religious life
Conclusion
“Angel” (1962) stands as one of Elvis Presley’s most sincere and spiritually resonant recordings. Released on the Follow That Dream EP (RCA Victor 45 EP EPA-4368) and recorded in 1961, it remains a powerful testament to his faith and emotional depth.
A calm, timeless, and deeply moving ballad, “Angel” reminds us that Elvis Presley was not only the King of Rock and Roll, but also an artist capable of expressing spirituality with quiet grace and profound feeling.
Access all of Elvis Presley’s songs at the following link: https://elvisradio24h.com/category/elvis-songs/
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