Reviewed by Dave Brassington

Joe Moscheo joined The Imperials, the legendary Southern gospel quartet that was part of Elvis's show in Las Vegas, in 1964. He spent four years with Elvis as a performer and friend. With the full support of Elvis Presley Enterprises, he produced the DVD, 'He Touched Me: The Gospel Music Of Elvis' in 2001 and is still actively involved in gospel music today. In his preface, Joe admits that over 1,000 books have been written on Elvis Presley, so what makes this different? As far as he knows it's the first time that the whole of a book has been devoted to the gospel side of Elvis Presley. It may surprise many only familiar with the 'King of Rock and Roll' and his well documented and somewhat painful lifestyle, that Elvis originally only wanted to be a gospel singer! Raised in poverty in Tupelo, Mississippi, the Presleys were active members of the local Assemblies Of God church and this is where Elvis heard his first music. Moving to Memphis, Tennessee, a teenage Elvis was influenced not only by black gospel singers but was captivated by the big white Southern gospel groups such as The Blackwood Brothers and The Stamps. Not only did Elvis watch their concerts and buy their records but he was very keen to join a gospel group. It was ironic that by the time a vacancy came up, Elvis has already embarked on a singing career that would ultimately make him the most successful recording artist the world has ever known. Unfortunately fame and fortune did not bring him the happiness he craved, as despite world wide adulation he never got over the early death of his beloved mother, followed later by his divorce from Priscilla and a gradual decline into ill health and drug dependency. The author brilliantly brings out the kind, generous Elvis he knew, who loved gospel music and would sing and play it incessantly not only during his shows but also in long after-hours singing sessions. Due to his fame Elvis was unable to attend church, and the author says that his gospel music helped him with the spiritual input that he needed. In the author's opinion Elvis did remain a believer even if some aspects of his lifestyle seemed to declare otherwise. A great read particularly for those who like Elvis's music and could be used as a useful evangelistic tool to Elvis fans who may not necessarily be Christians.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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