**Mark Duffett**

**Abstract:** Do fans sanctify their heroes? In the past, I have argued that Elvis fandom is *not* a neo-religious practice but that attention to a modified version of Durkheim's theory of religion can, nevertheless, help to explain it as a form of social interaction. I take that argument further here, first by revealing the ethical and analytical advantages of neo-Durkheimian theory, then by pitting this theory against three aspects of Elvis' sincere engagement with gospel music. Elvis Presley won three Grammy awards for his gospel albums and was the musician who did most to bring the gospel quartet tradition to the mainstream. His eclectic personal ties to spirituality and religion have become a focus of debate within his fan culture. They offer a set of discursive resources through which to explain the emotional impact and social influence of his music. If star musicians are positioned as centres of attention, what happens when they use their privileged position in the spotlight to offer a "spiritual" message?

I can understand that people have spiritual leanings and want to find a way to God. But there is only one way to God. Elvis never said, "I am the way, I am the light, I am the truth. And no man will ever come to God except if he comes through me." Elvis didn't say that. Jesus said it. Elvis is always going to be a special person in our lives because of what he did for our lives. But what he didn't offer was salvation. He did not offer a way back to God. Those of us who have successful lives, mostly if we have them, we have those lives successful because of what God has done for us through Jesus—nobody else… I trust Elvis as a man. He may have died in unhappy circumstances, but I'm sure inside he knew exactly who he was or perhaps more importantly who he wasn't…I don't want him tarnished. I have much more respect for Elvis than someone who might fall before him and worship him, because I don't think Elvis would have liked that.

Cliff Richard [1].

Reprinted from *Religions*. Cite as: Duffett, M. Elvis' Gospel Music: Between the Secular and the Spiritual? *Religions* **2015**, *6*, 182–203.
