Elvis Presley

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
And now the end is near
So I face the final curtain
My friend, I'll say it clear
I'll state my case of which I'm certain

[Verse 2]
I've lived a life that's full
I've traveled each and every highway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way

[Verse 3]
Regrets, I've had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exception

[Verse 4]
I planned each charted course
Each careful step along the byway
Oh, and more, much more than this
I did it my way

[Verse 5]
Yes, there were times, I'm sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all when there was doubt
I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all and I stood tall
And did it my way
[Verse 6]
I've loved, I've laughed and cried
I've had my fill, my share of losing
And now as tears subside
I find it all so amusing
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way
Oh, no, no not me
I did it my way

[Verse 7]
For what is a man, what has he got
If not himself, then he has not
To say the words he truly feels
And not the words of one who kneels
The record shows I took the blows
And did it my way
The record shows I took the blows
And did it my way

Elvis Presley's rendition of "My Way" is undoubtedly one of the most popular and influential songs ever produced in the history of music. Originally written by Paul Anka, "My Way" has become one of the most covered songs in the world and has been translated into numerous languages. In this article, we will delve into the history, origin, meaning, and impact of this iconic song.

About My Way

While "My Way" was written by Paul Anka, it was Elvis Presley who made the song a legend with his own version. The song exudes confidence and self-assurance, outlining a life lived on one's own terms, with no regrets about the choices made. Elvis Presley's rendition of the song captures the essence of the lyrics in a way that transcends time and language barriers and resonates with people even decades after its initial release.

The song was initially composed by French songwriter Jacques Revaux, but the original French lyrics were written by Claude Francois. In 1968, Paul Anka came across the song while he was in France and felt that the melody would make a great pop song when he rewrote the French lyrics.

Anka recorded his version of the song in 1969, and it was an instant hit. The lyrics of the song became famous for their powerful statement of individuality and determination to live life on one's terms. However, it was Elvis Presley's version of the song that truly captured the hearts of the people and became an everlasting classic.

The song's lyrics speak of a person who is unafraid to blaze their own paths, to make mistakes, and to always remain true to themselves. It is a testament to the power of the human spirit and highlights the universal need to be free, independent, and authentic.

What makes "My Way" such a timeless classic is not just the subject matter but the way the song conveys the message. Presley's unique voice and the way he interpreted the lyrics is what made his version stand out. He took the already powerful lyrics and turned them into a soulful, heartfelt masterpiece that continues to resonate with people across generations.

Presley's performance of "My Way" was so inspiring that it became the anthem of the artist's latter years. The song became so synonymous with Elvis that it was played at his funeral in 1977, cementing its place in history.

Over the years, "My Way" has been covered by numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra, who made his version a classic as well. The song has been translated into dozens of different languages and is still played at weddings, funerals, graduations, and other important events today.

In closing, there are few songs as iconic and timeless as "My Way." Its universal message of living life on one's terms resonates with people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. Elvis Presley's version of the song will forever be remembered as a masterpiece of music that captured the essence of the human spirit and continues to inspire generations of people across the world.

• Release Date: January 14, 1973
• Artist: Elvis Presley