Did you know?

Release Date: “Promised Land” was released as a single on September 27, 1974. It was later included on the album “Promised Land,” which was released on January 15, 1975.

Songwriter: The song “Promised Land” was written by the legendary rock and roll artist Chuck Berry. Chuck Berry is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of rock and roll music.

Genre: “Promised Land” is primarily a rock and roll song with elements of country and rhythm and blues. It features an upbeat and energetic musical arrangement.

Lyrics: The lyrics of “Promised Land” tell the story of a journey across the United States, celebrating the diverse landscapes, cities, and experiences encountered along the way. The song conveys a sense of adventure and the pursuit of the American dream.

Musical Style: Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Promised Land” is characterized by his powerful and distinctive vocals, backed by a lively and rhythmic musical arrangement. The song features prominent guitar work, which is a hallmark of Chuck Berry’s style.

Legacy: “Promised Land” is considered one of Elvis Presley’s later hits and remains a popular and well-loved song in his extensive catalog. It captures the essence of Elvis’s ability to infuse energy and charisma into his performances.

Chart Performance: The song performed well on the charts, reaching #14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and #9 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. It also achieved success internationally.

Cover Versions: “Promised Land” has been covered by various artists over the years, but Elvis Presley’s rendition remains the most famous and enduring version of the song.

Cultural Significance: The song’s lyrics, celebrating the diverse beauty of America and the promise of better days, resonate with many people and have made it a favorite among Elvis fans and fans of rock and roll music.

“Promised Land” is a timeless classic that showcases Elvis Presley’s talent and the enduring influence of Chuck Berry’s songwriting. It continues to be enjoyed by music enthusiasts around the world.

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Lyrics

I left my home in Norfolk Virginia
California on my mind
I straddled that Greyhound
And rode into Raleigh
And on across Caroline

We had motor trouble that turn into a struggle
Halfway across Alabam’
And that hound broke down and left us all stranded
In downtown Birmingham

Right away I brought me a through train ticket
Ridin’ across Mississippi clean
And I was on that midnight flyer out of Birmingham
Smoking into New Orleans

Somebody help me get out of Louisiana
Just to help me get to Houston Town
There are people there who care a little about me
And they won’t let the poor boy down

Sure as you’re born brought me a silk suit
Put luggage in my hand
And I woke up high over Alberquerque
On a jet to the promised land

Working on a T-bone steak a la carte
Flying over to the golden state
Ah when the pilot told us in thirteen minutes
He would set us at the terminal gate

Swing low chariot come down easy
Taxi to the terminal zone
Cut your engines and cool your wings
And let me make it to the telephone

Los Angeles give me Norfolk Virginia
Tidewater four ten o nine
Tell the folks back home this is the promised land calling
And the poor boy is on the line

Working on a T-bone steak a la carte
Flying over to the golden state
Ah when the pilot told us in thirteen minutes
He would set us at the terminal gate

Swing low chariot come down easy
Taxi to the terminal zone
Cut your engines and cool your wings
And let me make it to the telephone

Los Angeles give me Norfolk Virginia
Tidewater four ten o nine
Tell the folks back home this is the promised land calling
And the poor boy is on the line