Introduction
What Now My Love: Elvis Presley Belts Out a Heartfelt Plea
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “What Now My Love” isn’t just another heartbreak ballad. Released in 1972, it became a cornerstone of his live performances, showcasing his unmatched stage presence and ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Here’s a look at the song’s journey to becoming an Elvis staple:
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French Roots, English Lyrics: “What Now My Love” originated in France as “Et Maintenant” (“And Now”). Composed by renowned French singer-songwriter Gilbert Bécaud with lyrics by Pierre Delanoë, the song explored the devastation of heartbreak. In 1962, American lyricist Carl Sigman penned the English version, “What Now My Love,” retaining the poignant message of the original.
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A Hit for Shirley Bassey: Before reaching Elvis, “What Now My Love” found success in the hands of Welsh songstress Dame Shirley Bassey. Her 1962 recording became a major hit in the UK, showcasing the song’s dramatic potential with her powerful vocals.
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Elvis Makes it His Own: A decade later, Presley included “What Now My Love” in his recording sessions for the album “Elvis Now.” His rendition, however, differed from Bassey’s operatic approach. Elvis injected the song with a raw vulnerability, his voice filled with longing and despair as he croons about the emptiness following a lost love.
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Live Show Powerhouse: “What Now My Love” truly came alive during Presley’s live performances. The song became a regular fixture in his setlists, particularly during his iconic 1973 Aloha from Hawaii concert, a global broadcast witnessed by over a billion viewers. Elvis’s passionate delivery and the song’s powerful lyrics resonated with audiences, solidifying its place as a live favorite.
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A Timeless Heartbreak Anthem: Even after decades, “What Now My Love” continues to evoke strong emotions. The song’s universal themes of heartbreak and loss resonate with listeners, making it a go-to anthem for anyone who’s experienced the pain of a broken relationship.
So, as the dramatic piano intro sets the stage, prepare to be enveloped by Elvis’s powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery. “What Now My Love” transcends its origins, becoming a powerful ballad about the lingering pain of lost love, a testament to Elvis Presley’s unmatched ability to connect with audiences through his music.