Introduction
The King’s Reflection: Elvis Presley and “My Way”
Elvis Presley’s powerful rendition of “My Way” might be a familiar karaoke anthem, but the song’s journey to becoming a legend is a fascinating one. Originally a French song titled “Comme d’habitude” (“As Usual”), it was written by Claude François, Gilles Thibault, and Jacques Revaux in 1968. The lyrics, reflecting on a life filled with experiences, resonated with Canadian singer Paul Anka. He penned the English lyrics, transforming the song into the introspective “My Way” we know today.
Frank Sinatra released his version in 1969, and it became his signature song. The lyrics, portraying a man looking back at his life with a sense of acceptance for his choices, resonated deeply with audiences. However, “My Way” wasn’t originally written with Sinatra in mind. The introspective nature of the song surprisingly stemmed from a break-up!
Meanwhile, Elvis Presley recorded his version of “My Way” in 1977 during a live performance for the “Elvis in Concert” television special. Unlike Sinatra’s smooth delivery, Presley’s rendition exudes a raw emotion, reflecting on his own journey as the King of Rock and Roll.
Tragically, Elvis Presley passed away just weeks before the live recording of “My Way” was released as a single in October 1977. It became his first posthumous release, reaching number 22 on the US charts. Presley’s version offered a new perspective to the song, adding a layer of vulnerability and reflection on a life lived in the spotlight.
Whether you connect with Sinatra’s iconic delivery or Presley’s powerful performance, “My Way” transcends generations. It’s a song about life’s journey, the regrets and triumphs, leaving a lasting impact with its poignant lyrics and powerful delivery.