 The studio recording was finished in just one take, and everyone in the studio was "crying their eyes out" by the end of the performance.Armstrong's straight performance of Iola's lyrics, combined with Brubeck's subtle piano comping and gorgeous background vocals performed by Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross created a powerful, emotional musical experience for all involved.Later, at the live performance of "The Real Ambassadors" with Armstrong at the 1962 Monterey Jazz Festival, Lambert, Hendricks, and Bavan put sackcloths and hoods over their heads (which they lifted before singing) just before beginning "They Say I Look Like God".