About the song
(watch the video below)
"Known Only to Him" is a gospel hymn that Elvis Presley recorded in 1960 as part of his album "His Hand in Mine." The song, written by Stuart Hamblen, is a powerful expression of faith and the belief in a higher power that knows and understands the deepest struggles and emotions of the human heart. With its heartfelt lyrics and Presley's emotive delivery, "Known Only to Him" remains a timeless classic in the genre of gospel music, touching the hearts and souls of listeners around the world.
As the song begins, Presley's voice, accompanied by gentle piano chords, sets a reverent and contemplative tone. The opening lines, "Known only to Him are the great hidden secrets / I'll fear not the darkness when my flame shall dim," speak to the universal experience of grappling with the unknown and finding solace in faith. Presley's delivery is both tender and earnest, conveying a sense of vulnerability and trust in the divine.
Throughout the song, Presley's vocals soar with emotion, capturing the depth and complexity of the human experience. The chorus, with its stirring refrain of "Known only to Him are the great heavy burdens / I bear not a one of them shall I know," serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith in overcoming life's challenges. Presley's voice is both powerful and soulful, conveying a sense of comfort and reassurance that resonates deeply with listeners.
Thematically, "Known Only to Him" explores the timeless theme of faith and the belief in a higher power that sees and understands the struggles and joys of the human heart. Whether it's the weight of heavy burdens or the fear of the unknown, the song's message resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level. In an era marked by uncertainty and turmoil, "Known Only to Him" serves as a source of comfort and strength, reminding listeners that they are never alone in their struggles.
In addition to its heartfelt lyrics and Presley's emotive vocals, "Known Only to Him" is also notable for its simple yet stirring arrangement. The song's gentle piano accompaniment and subtle orchestration create a rich and reverent backdrop for Presley's vocal performance, allowing the message of faith and hope to shine through. From the soaring strings to the delicate harmonies, every element of the song's arrangement serves to enhance its emotional impact, drawing the listener further into its spiritual narrative.
Beyond its immediate impact as a piece of music, "Known Only to Him" also holds a special place in the cultural zeitgeist as a reflection of Elvis Presley's own faith journey. Throughout his life, Presley was known for his deep spiritual beliefs and the role that faith played in guiding him through life's challenges. By recording songs like "Known Only to Him," Presley shared his faith with millions of fans around the world, inspiring them to find solace and strength in their own spiritual beliefs.
In conclusion, "Known Only to Him" by Elvis Presley is a timeless gospel hymn that celebrates the transformative power of faith and the belief in a higher power that sees and understands the struggles of the human heart. Through its heartfelt lyrics, emotive vocals, and stirring arrangement, the song captures the essence of what it means to find comfort and strength in times of uncertainty. Decades after its release, "Known Only to Him" continues to resonate with listeners around the world, serving as a source of inspiration and solace in their spiritual journeys.
Video
Lyric
Known only to him are the great hidden secrets
I'll fear not the darkness when my flame shall dim
I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future
It's a secret known only to him
In this world of fear and doubt on my knees I ask the question
Why a lonely, heavy cross I must bear
Then he tells me in my prayer, it's because I am trustworthy
He gives me strength far more than my share
Known only to him are the great hidden secrets
I'll fear not the darkness when my flame shall dim
I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future
It's a secret known only to him (only to him)
