Elvis Presley

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An American Trilogy album cover

An American Trilogy

Elvis Presley

Lyrics

[Verse 1 - Dixie]
Oh, I wish I was in the land of cotton
Old times they are not forgotten
Look away, look away, look away Dixieland
Oh, I wish I was in Dixie, away, away
In Dixieland I take my stand to live and die in Dixie
For Dixieland, that's where I was born
Early Lord one frosty morning
Look away, look away, look away Dixieland

[Verse 2 - The Battle Hymn of the Republic]
Glory, glory hallelujah
Glory, glory hallelujah
Glory, glory hallelujah
His truth is marching on

[Verse 3 - All My Trials]
So hush little baby
Don't you cry
You know your daddy's bound to die
But all my trials, Lord, will soon be over

[Instrumental Break 03:00-03:48]

[Outro - The Battle Hymn of the Republic (Reprise)]
Glory, glory hallelujah
His truth is marching on
His truth is marching on

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Elvis Presley was undoubtedly one of the most legendary musicians of all time, and his music continues to mesmerize audiences around the world. Among his many notable songs is An American Trilogy, which has become a classic in its own right. This medley is a unique blend of three quintessentially American songs, each with its own distinct history and background. Released in 1972, An American Trilogy remains a powerful and evocative anthem of patriotism, unity, and the deep cultural heritage of the United States.

About An American Trilogy

An American Trilogy is a medley that consists of three American songs: Dixie, All My Trials, and The Battle Hymn of the Republic. The song features Presley's signature tenor voice, backed by a soaring choir and brass section. The song starts with the melody of Dixie, a popular song from the mid-19th century that was often associated with the Confederate States during the Civil War. Dixie became known as one of the unofficial anthems of the Confederacy, and its adoption by Presley was seen by some as controversial.

All My Trials, the second song in the medley, is an African-American spiritual that dates back to the 19th century. This song has a deeply poignant and emotional quality, and its inclusion in the medley reflects the complex history of race relations in the United States. The medley's final song, The Battle Hymn of the Republic, is a patriotic song that gained widespread popularity during the Civil War. It was a popular marching song for Union troops and has remained a powerful symbol of national unity ever since.

An American Trilogy is a masterful composition that showcases Elvis Presley's musical talent and his ability to evoke powerful emotions in his listeners. The song is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the United States and reflects the country's complex history of struggle and triumph. The medley's seamless transitions between the three songs make it a truly remarkable musical achievement.

The Perplexity & Burstiness of the Song

An American Trilogy is a song that is filled with perplexity and burstiness. It consists of three widely different songs, each with its own complex history and meaning. The inclusion of Dixie, a song that has been associated with the Confederacy, alongside All My Trials, an African-American spiritual, and The Battle Hymn of the Republic, which was widely regarded as a Union marching song, creates a potent mix of musical and cultural influences.

The song's burstiness lies in its powerful transitions between the three songs. The blending of the three melodies is seamless, and the choir's soaring vocals and the brass section add a dynamic dimension to the music. The song's climax is particularly impactful, as Presley sings the words of The Battle Hymn of the Republic with a passionate intensity that is sure to move even the most stoic listener.

Conclusion

In summary, An American Trilogy is a masterful composition that showcases Elvis Presley's musical artistry and his incredible ability to evoke powerful emotions in his listeners. The medley's complex mix of cultural influences and its rich history make it an enduring musical masterpiece that continues to capture the hearts and minds of people around the world. The song's perplexity and burstiness, as well as its powerful message of unity and patriotism, make it a testament to the enduring power of music and its ability to bring people together.