If You Don’t Come Back – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

Elvis Presley’s “If You Don’t Come Back” is a soulful ballad that showcases the King’s enduring appeal and timeless voice. Released in 1973 as part of his album Raised on Rock, the song quickly became a fan favorite, solidifying its place in Presley’s extensive discography.

Written by the legendary songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, “If You Don’t Come Back” is a heartfelt plea from a lover yearning for their partner’s return. The song’s melancholic tone is further enhanced by Presley’s emotive vocals, which convey a deep sense of longing and vulnerability.

The track’s musical arrangement is simple yet effective, featuring a stripped-down instrumentation that allows Presley’s voice to take center stage. The song’s repetitive chorus, “If you don’t come back, I don’t know what I’ll do,” serves as a powerful emotional anchor, driving home the song’s central theme.

Despite being released during a period when Presley’s career was experiencing a decline, “If You Don’t Come Back” stands as a testament to his enduring talent. The song’s timeless appeal has ensured its continued popularity, and it remains a beloved classic among fans of both Elvis Presley and soulful ballads.

Video:

Lyrics:

“If You Don’t Come Back”

Woke up early in the morning
What did the poor boy find?
Well, the car was gone and you were gone
And I almost lost my mindIf you don’t come back
(If you don’t come back)
Yeah, if you don’t come back today
(If you don’t come back today)
You can call up the people at the crazy house
And take this crazy man away

Threw himself up against a stone wall
He tore his clothes at us all
Well, I ran out on the street in my stockinged feet
Tell the police I’ve been robbed

If you don’t come back
(If you don’t come back)
Yeah, if you don’t come back today
(If you don’t come back today)
You can tell all the people at the crazy house
To take this crazy man away

Mrs. Brown’s been talking about me
To the people across the street
She said, “I cooked that boy a bucket of stew
But the poor thing just won’t eat”

If you don’t come back
(If you don’t come back)
Ooh, if you don’t come back today
(If you don’t come back today)
You can call up the people at the crazy house
And take this crazy man away