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".
: The special aired on October 3, 1977, less than two months after Elvis’s death. Performance Highlights and Reception Elvis Presley, How Great Thou Art Live 1977
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 Reviewers at the time, such as those from
: Despite being physically frail, he delivered the hymn with a "stirring powerful top A" and soaring high notes that moved audiences to tears. While his physical health was visibly declining during
: For Elvis, gospel was a "place of solace" and a "confession of faith" rather than just a performance.