Introduction:
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock & Roll, might not be the first name that pops into your head when thinking about gospel music. Yet, in 1969, he took a surprising turn, stepping into the shoes of a doctor working alongside nuns in the gritty world of urban renewal for the film “Change of Habit.” And with it, he delivered a powerful rendition of the song of the same name, blurring the lines between sacred and secular in a way only the King could.
“Change of Habit” wasn’t just a film with a soundtrack. It was a social commentary, diving into the lives of three undercover nuns trying to help a troubled community. Elvis, playing Dr. John Carpenter, finds himself drawn to Sister Michelle, a woman wrestling with her faith and her newfound love for him. The film’s score, composed by Ben Weisman and Buddy Kaye, reflected this internal conflict, blending traditional gospel sounds with pop and rock influences.
The title track, “Change of Habit,” serves as both the film’s emotional core and Elvis’ musical showcase. Written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song transcends its cinematic context, becoming a universal message of growth and change. Elvis delivers the lyrics with a surprising tenderness, his voice carrying both the yearning for love and the weight of uncertainty. The gospel-infused chorus, complete with handclaps and soaring harmonies, adds a layer of spiritual uplift, hinting at the possibility of redemption amidst the film’s social turmoil.
The song’s impact wasn’t confined to the silver screen. Released as a single, “Change of Habit” climbed the charts, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and proving that Elvis’ foray into gospel resonated with audiences. It even earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, signifying its artistic merit beyond its mere novelty.
But “Change of Habit” is more than just a chart-topping song. It’s a testament to Elvis’ artistic boldness and his willingness to push boundaries. He embraced the raw vulnerability of the story, channeling it into a performance that is both soulful and undeniably Elvis. It’s a reminder that the King’s musical prowess stretched far beyond the confines of rock & roll, offering a glimpse into the depth and versatility hidden beneath his iconic persona.