Elvis Presley’s extensive catalog features numerous gems, and among his 1970s recordings is the uplifting track “Elvis Presley I Got A Feelin’ In My Body”. This song, brimming with gospel fervor and optimistic energy, captures a specific moment in the King’s recording journey during his sessions at the legendary Stax Studios in Memphis. Delving into its lyrics, recording history, and the context of its creation offers insight into Elvis’s musical output during this period.
The Lyrics of “I Got A Feelin’ In My Body”
Written by Dennis Linde, the lyrics draw heavily on religious and hopeful themes, referencing biblical stories like Moses leading the Israelites and Daniel in the lion’s den. The core message revolves around faith, overcoming hardship, and anticipating a brighter future, a common thread in gospel-influenced music.
When Moses walked the children out of Egypt land
Said now don’t you worry, we’re in the Lord’s hands
He’s gonna walk beside us, the time is comin’ near
He’s gonna wash away all our misery and our fearI got a feelin’ in my body
This will be our lucky day
We’ll be releasing all our sorrow
Leave it layin’ along the wayWhen Daniel faced the lion there wasn’t any doubt
You got to be like Daniel and the Lord will help us outI got a feelin’ in my body
This will be our lucky day
We’ll be releasing all our sorrow
Leave it layin’ along the wayWon’t you lift your eyes up children
Lift them to the sky
Heaven stands before you, gates are open wide
Shelter for the weary, comfort for the weak
We’ll leave the devil’s evil, sweatin’ on the streetI gotta, I gotta, I gotta
I got a feelin’ in my body
This will be our lucky day
We’ll be releasing all our sorrow
Leave it layin’ along the wayWon’t you lift your eyes up children
Lift them to the sky
Heaven stands before you, gates are open wide
Shelter for the weary, comfort for the weak
Leave the devils evil, sweatin’ on the streetI gotta, I gotta, I gotta
I got a feelin’ in my body
This will be our lucky day
We’ll be releasing all our sorrow
Leave it layin’ along the wayI wanna know, I wanna know, I wanna know right now, I wanna know
Yeah. yeah, I got a feel
I got a feelin’
I got a feelin’I got a feelin’ in my body
This will be our lucky day
We’ll be releasing all our sorrow
Leave it layin’ along the way
Recording the Feeling: Stax Studios, December 1973
“I Got A Feelin’ In My Body” was recorded by Elvis on December 10, 1973, at Stax Studios in Memphis, Tennessee. This session was part of a productive block of recordings spanning from December 10th to December 16th. During this period, Elvis laid down tracks for what would become parts of the Good Times and Promised Land albums. Notable songs recorded alongside “I Got A Feelin’ In My Body” during these December sessions include “It’s Midnight,” “Help Me,” “My Boy,” “Loving Arms,” “Promised Land,” “There’s A Honky Tonk Angel (Who Will Take Me Back In),” and “If That Isn’t Love.” The prolific output showcased Elvis working through a variety of material, from heartfelt ballads to country tunes and gospel-infused numbers.
Context: Elvis in 1973
The December 1973 Stax sessions followed earlier sessions held at the same studio in July 1973. The July dates produced tracks primarily for the Raised On Rock/For Ol’ Times Sake album, including the title track, “Find Out What’s Happening,” and “I’ve Got A Thing About You Baby.” These Memphis sessions marked a return to studio work in the city after his landmark 1969 American Sound Studio recordings.
Elvis Presley collaborating with Memphis Horns’ Wayne Jackson during the 1973 Stax Studios recording sessions in Memphis.
The year 1973 was also significant personally for Elvis. On October 9, 1973, his divorce from Priscilla Presley was finalized. Although they appeared in court together and maintained an amicable relationship focused on co-parenting their daughter Lisa Marie, this major life change occurred just two months before the December Stax sessions where “I Got A Feelin’ In My Body” was recorded. This period reflects Elvis navigating personal transitions while continuing his demanding recording and performing schedule.
Elvis Presley and Priscilla Presley leaving court after their divorce finalization in October 1973.
Release on ‘Good Times’ Album
“I Got A Feelin’ In My Body” received its first official release on the album Good Times, issued in March 1974. The album compiled tracks from the December 1973 Stax sessions, offering listeners a collection of Elvis’s recent studio work. While the July 1973 sessions fed the Raised On Rock album, the December recordings provided material for both Good Times and the subsequent Promised Land album released in January 1975.
Album artwork for Elvis Presley’s ‘Raised on Rock’, featuring tracks from the July 1973 Stax sessions.
Conclusion
“Elvis Presley I Got A Feelin’ In My Body” stands as a vibrant example of the King’s work during his final visits to Stax Studios. Penned by Dennis Linde and recorded amidst a flurry of activity in December 1973, the song channels an infectious, gospel-inspired optimism. Released on the Good Times album, it remains a noteworthy track from a period marked by significant personal changes and continued musical exploration for Elvis Presley. Its energetic performance and hopeful message continue to resonate with fans listening today.
