Elvis Presley

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Oh, my love, my darling
I've hungered
For your touch
A long, lonely time
Time goes by
So slowly
And time can do so much
Are you, still mine?
I need your love, I need your love
God speed your love to me

[Bridge]
Lonely rivers flow to the sea, to the sea
To the open arms of the sea
Lonely rivers cry, wait for me, wait for me
I'll be coming home, wait for me

[Verse 2]
My love, my darling
I've hungered for your touch
A long, lonely time
I need your love, I need your love
God speed your love, to me

Unchained Melody is unquestionably one of Elvis Presley's most famous songs. This song has been associated with Elvis more than any other, and there is a reason for this. Although the album version was recorded on April 24, 1977, it is the live concert performance video from his tour in June, just two months before his untimely death, that is the most famous version of this song.

Elvis's talent shone through his illness as he poured his heart into the performance. The heartbreaking video shows us a pale and puffy Elvis, showing clear evidence of being unhealthy. Yet, his voice was almost as powerful as ever. It’s considered the last great moment of his career, where he showcased his musical genius.

About Unchained Melody

The song "Unchained Melody" is originally from a 1955 film called Unchained. Hence, it was occasionally referred to as "Unchained Melody (Unchained)", to tell it apart from other songs with the same name. The song was written by Alex North and Hy Zaret, who collaborated on several songs for film and television during the '50s and '60s. Alex North epitomizes collaboration with various famous composers during his career, spanning more than 50 years.

With its heavenly sound, the song's evocative lyrics describe the longing for an ideal love that appears to lie just out of reach, thanks to the way the melody and lyrics are constructed. This is what makes it an unforgettable masterpiece. In the chorus, the melody flourishes into a rising falsetto that feels like it's pulling on your heartstrings.

Over the years, the song has been covered by several singers, including The Righteous Brothers, who had a massive hit with their take on the song a few years after Elvis's death. The song's melancholic and empathetic melody captured the hearts of people around the world, making it enduring.

Elvis Presley's Version

The version of Unchained Melody that Elvis performed during his concert, two months before his death, is probably one of his greatest performances. The performance has given this song a new life, and Elvis stands out as the crowning glory of it all. He manages to capture the song's spirit fully and creates an atmosphere that is magical. Elvis had a way of blending his exceptional voice with the song's mood while still preserving its original vibe.

Elvis's rendition has undoubtedly altered the song's original meaning. The way he sings the song communicates his loneliness and pain. This turns this song into a pain-filled love ballad that left people mesmerized.

The Impact of Unchained Melody

Aside from the impact it had on Elvis's career, Unchained Melody has been a timeless classic. Its unique melodic pattern has established it as one of the greatest love ballads of all time. Whenever you hear Elvis sing "Unchained Melody," you're magically transported into a space of love and pain. The song's lyric is not only romantic, but it also expresses feelings of vulnerability. The song commiserates with emotions that are unexplainable, thus making it relatable in every aspect.

Furthermore, the overall performance of the song has resulted in the creation of a classic that will continue to inspire and delight for many years to come. Unchained Melody has been frequently featured in movies, television shows, and commercials and covered by countless artists. Recently, in a well-known talent competition show, a contestant's initial performance of the song rocketed him to national prominence. The song has captured hearts and minds, lending wings to dreams whilst instilling hope and optimism where it's needed the most.

Conclusion

In short, Unchained Melody remains one of Elvis Presley's most popular and heartwarming hits. While it was originally written for a movie, this song has stood the test of time and has become an iconic love ballad that will continue to be cherished for generations to come. Elvis's version of the song has added another new dimension to the song due to the enchanting performance that he put on two months before his passing.

• Release Date: July 19, 1977
• Artist: Elvis Presley