Introduction
“He Touched Me” is a gospel song written by Bill Gaither and recorded by the Bill Gaither Trio in 1963. It has since been recorded by many other artists, including Elvis Presley, who released his version in 1971.
The song is about the personal experience of having been touched by Jesus Christ. It is a powerful testimony to the transforming power of God’s love and grace.
Gaither has said that he was inspired to write the song after hearing a preacher talk about the word “touch” in the New Testament. He realized that Jesus often touched the people he healed and delivered, and that this physical touch was a sign of his love and compassion.
Gaither wanted to write a song that would express the gratitude and joy of having been touched by Jesus. He also wanted to encourage others to experience the same love and grace for themselves.
Elvis Presley’s recording of “He Touched Me” was a huge hit, reaching number one on the Billboard gospel charts. It also won Presley his second Grammy Award for Best Inspirational Performance.
Presley’s version of the song is particularly powerful because of his own personal experience of being touched by God. In the early 1970s, Presley was going through a difficult period in his life. He was struggling with addiction and depression. However, he found renewed hope and strength in his faith.
Presley’s recording of “He Touched Me” is a testament to the power of God’s love to transform even the most broken lives. It is a song that has brought hope and encouragement to millions of people around the world.
Here is a more detailed history of the song:
- In 1963, Bill Gaither wrote the song “He Touched Me” for the Bill Gaither Trio.
- The song was released on the trio’s album Heartwarming.
- In 1971, Elvis Presley recorded a version of “He Touched Me” with the Imperials as backup singers.
- Presley’s version of the song was released as a single and became a huge hit, reaching number one on the Billboard gospel charts.
- In 1972, Presley released the album He Touched Me, which featured his version of the title track.
- The album won Presley his second Grammy Award for Best Inspirational Performance.
“He Touched Me” is one of the most popular and beloved gospel songs ever written. It is a song that has resonated with people of all ages and backgrounds for many years. It is a song that speaks to the power of God’s love to transform lives.
Conclusion
“He Touched Me” is a powerful and moving gospel song that has brought hope and encouragement to millions of people around the world. It is a song that is sure to touch the hearts of all who hear it.
Watch video
Lyric
Shackled by the heavy burden
‘Neath the load of guilt and shame
Then the hand of Jesus touched me
(He touched me)
And now I am no longer the sameFor He touched me, oh, He touched me
(He touched me)
And oh, what joy that floods my soul
(wonderful joy, wonderful joy that floods my soul)
Something happened and now I know
He touched me and made me wholeOh, since I met this blessed Savior
And since he cleansed and made me whole
Oh, I will never cease, never cease to praise Him
(to praise Him)
I’ll shout it while eternity rollsOh, He touched me, oh, He touched me
(He touched me)
And, oh, what a joy that floods my soul
Something happened and now I know
He touched me and made me whole