Elvis Presley

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Are you lonesome tonight? Do you miss me tonight?
Are you sorry we drifted apart?
Does your memory stray to a brighter summer day
When I kissed you and called you sweetheart?

[Verse 2]
Do the chairs in your parlor seem empty and bare?
Do you gaze at your doorstep and picture me there?
Is your heart filled with pain? Shall I come back again?
Tell me, dear, are you lonesome tonight?

[Spoken]
I wonder if you are lonesome tonight
You know someone said that the world's a stage and each must play a part
Fate had me playing in love with you as my sweetheart
Act one was where we met
I loved you at first glance
You read your lines so cleverly and never missed a cue
Then came act two
You seemed to change, you acted strange
And why, I've never known
Honey, you lied when you said you loved me
And I had no cause to doubt you
But I'd rather go on hearing your lies
Than to go on living without you
Now the stage is bare and I'm standing there
With emptiness all around
And if you won't come back to me
Then they can bring the curtain down
[Outro]
Is your heart filled with pain? Shall I come back again?
Tell me, dear, are you lonesome tonight?

When it comes to timeless ballads, few songs have captured the hearts of millions quite like "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" by Elvis Presley. Originally written in 1926 by Lou Handman and Roy Turk, this powerful tune was reimagined by Elvis and released in April 1960, quickly becoming one of the King's most enduring hits. With its gorgeous melody and touching lyrics, "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is a song that speaks to the loneliness and heartache that we all experience at various points in our lives.

About Are You Lonesome Tonight?

At its core, "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is a song about the pain of longing for someone who is no longer there. The lyrics speak to the deep emotional connections that we form with others, and the heartbreak that comes when those connections are broken. Despite the melancholic theme, however, the song is also imbued with an undeniable sense of hope and resilience, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, we can find the strength to carry on.

One of the most remarkable things about "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is the way that it has endured over the years. Originally released over half a century ago, the song still resonates with audiences today, capturing the hearts of new generations of fans with its stirring melody and powerful lyrics. This is a testament to the enduring power of Elvis Presley's music, as well as to the enduring themes of love and loss that lie at the heart of human experience.

From a technical perspective, "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is a masterclass in songwriting and performance. The gentle, lilting melody is perfectly matched with the yearning lyrics, creating a sense of emotional depth that is truly unforgettable. Elvis' performance on the track is nothing short of breathtaking, with his distinctive voice lending an added layer of warmth and authenticity to the already powerful lyrics.

It's little surprise, then, that "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" has earned numerous accolades and honors over the years. The song was nominated for a Record of the Year Grammy Award in 1961, and has since been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, cementing its place in the pantheon of great American music. With its universal themes and timeless appeal, "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is a song that will continue to touch the hearts of listeners for generations to come.

Conclusion

From its origins as a celebrated ballad from the 1920s to its enduring status as an American classic, "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is a song that continues to captivate audiences all over the world. With its powerful melody, poignant lyrics, and enduring themes of love and loss, this Elvis Presley classic is a testament to the enduring power of music to connect us to our shared humanity. Whether you're a lifelong fan of the King or simply appreciate a great song, "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is a tune that is sure to resonate deeply with you.

• Release Date: November 1, 1960
• Artist: Elvis Presley