Reviewers at the time, such as those from the Charlotte Observer and the Omaha World Herald , noted that while Elvis sometimes relied on his legendary charisma to carry other songs, his gospel numbers remained "fearless" and "stunning".
: Despite being physically frail, he delivered the hymn with a "stirring powerful top A" and soaring high notes that moved audiences to tears.
: For Elvis, gospel was a "place of solace" and a "confession of faith" rather than just a performance. Elvis Presley, How Great Thou Art Live 1977
: Notable 1977 live renditions occurred in Charlotte, NC (Feb 20), Amarillo, TX (March 24), and Knoxville, TN (May 20).
: The Omaha performance of "How Great Thou Art" is considered the final professionally recorded live version of the song. Reviewers at the time, such as those from
: The special used footage from two shows: Omaha, Nebraska (June 19, 1977) and Rapid City, South Dakota (June 21, 1977).
: The special aired on October 3, 1977, less than two months after Elvis’s death. Performance Highlights and Reception : Notable 1977 live renditions occurred in Charlotte,
Elvis Presley ’s 1977 live performances of "" stand as a haunting and powerful finale to his legendary career. While his physical health was visibly declining during his final tours, his vocal strength on this gospel classic remained remarkably intact, often cited by critics and fans as the emotional peak of his later shows. The 1977 CBS Television Special