Introduction
It’s Now or Never: Elvis Goes International
While synonymous with rock and roll, Elvis Presley surprised fans with the 1960 ballad “It’s Now or Never.” This dramatic song became one of his biggest hits, showcasing his vocal range and marking a turning point in his career.
The origin of “It’s Now or Never” lies in the classic Neapolitan song “‘O Sole Mio.” Songwriters Aaron Schroeder and Wally Gold adapted the melody, with Presley’s publisher aiming for international appeal. This led to an interesting snag: copyright law. While the melody seemed like public domain, European publishers held rights, causing a delay in the single’s release.
Despite the hold-up, “It’s Now or Never” became a culmination of Elvis’ vocal ambitions. Recorded in Nashville in 1960, the song featured a stellar line-up of musicians, including Scotty Moore and Hank Garland on guitars, the Jordanaires on backing vocals, and Floyd Cramer on piano.
The song’s impact was undeniable. It spent eight weeks at the top of the UK charts and remains Presley’s biggest-selling international single, exceeding 20 million copies sold worldwide. “It’s Now or Never” wasn’t just a hit; it was a turning point. This operatic ballad showed Presley’s willingness to embrace genres beyond rock and roll, foreshadowing his artistic evolution in the coming years.
So, when you hear the soaring vocals and passionate pleas of “It’s Now or Never,” remember the song’s intriguing origin story and its role in showcasing a new side of the King of Rock and Roll.