Pittsburgh-based singer Stephani Ezatoff brings a personal interpretation to “Run On,” a traditional African American Gospel hymn made widely known through recordings by artists including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Odetta. Ezatoff’s version was created as a tribute to Elvis Presley’s 1967 interpretation, while giving the song a new arrangement and a vocal approach built entirely around her own voice.
The recording took place at Nashville’s Sound Shop Studio on Music Row, a location that would later take on an unexpected significance. Ezatoff discovered after the session that Presley had recorded his version of “Run On” at RCA’s Studio B, within walking distance of the Sound Shop. Just days after Ezatoff’s recording session, Sound Shop closed its doors permanently and was later demolished, adding another layer of meaning to a track that was already rooted in musical history.
The project was produced by Brian Speer of the legendary Speer Family, with an arrangement by Aaron Minick, son of Gospel musician Johnny Minick. Veteran session musicians Gary Lunn and Dave Cleveland also contributed to the recording, alongside recording and sound engineer Steve Allen.
Minick’s arrangement focuses on the tension within the song’s message, particularly its contrast between divine love and judgment. Ezatoff wanted the recording to retain the traditional call-and-response style while paying close attention to the details of Presley’s version.
One of the most distinctive elements of the recording is that Ezatoff performed the lead, background vocals, and harmony parts herself. As the song progresses, additional layers of her voice gradually build the arrangement, creating an increasingly intense and ethereal sound. The approach was suggested by producer Brian Speer, who described the finished track as being “like a movie soundtrack.”
The song itself carries a message about the omnipotence and judgment of God, with lyrics that present the image of someone attempting to escape that judgment. Ezatoff says she wanted the performance to communicate the spiritual weight of those words rather than treat the song simply as a vocal showcase. For her, every artistic decision has meaning, including the references and details that pay respect to Presley’s interpretation.
Ezatoff’s connection to Gospel music has also brought recognition. She was selected as a semi-finalist for “Run On” in the Best Christian Song category at the Unsigned Only Music Awards, following her previous semi-finalist recognition in the Best Female Vocalist category for her rendition of Babbie Mason’s “God Will Open The Windows Of Heaven.” That cover was also awarded Best Song and Best Music Video at the Christian Online Film Festival in December 2025.
Through “Run On,” Ezatoff approaches a traditional Gospel song with respect for its history while making the recording her own. Between the layered vocals, Minick’s arrangement, the connection to Presley’s version, and the unexpected final days of Sound Shop Studio, the recording carries a story that reaches well beyond the session itself.
Stream Below:open.spotify.com/track/12BpgU0ZTne
Keep up with Stephani Ezatoff: www.stephaniezatoff.com