Introduction:
“That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” is a ballad that holds a special place in the history of Elvis Presley’s illustrious career. Originally recorded in 1953 as part of a demo by a young Presley at the iconic Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, the song was a sign of his deep love for ballads and emotional storytelling. However, it wasn’t until 1957 that the polished version was professionally recorded and officially released in 1958 as the B-side to Presley’s hit single “All Shook Up.”
The song belongs to the pop and rock ‘n’ roll genres, with strong influences of traditional pop ballad styles, showcasing Presley’s early musical influences, which were rooted in gospel and rhythm and blues. The tender, heartfelt lyrics and slow tempo allowed Presley to demonstrate his vocal range and emotional depth, contrasting with the upbeat and energetic rock sound that had propelled him to stardom.
“That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” appeared on the album “Elvis’ Golden Records” (1958), a compilation of some of his most successful singles up to that point. While it wasn’t one of Presley’s biggest commercial hits, the song earned recognition for its emotional intensity and his smooth vocal delivery. The track demonstrated that Presley was more than just a rock ‘n’ roll star; he was a versatile vocalist who could interpret heartfelt ballads with profound emotional resonance.
The song did not top the charts like some of Presley’s other hits, but it remains an important part of his early career. “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” has since become a beloved track among fans, symbolizing Presley’s ability to connect with listeners through both upbeat rock songs and tender, emotional ballads. It also highlights his roots and the early recordings that helped shape him into the legendary figure he would become.
Video:
Lyrics:
“That’s When Your Heartaches Begin”
If you find your sweetheart
In the arms of a friend
That’s when your heartaches begin
When dreams of a lifetime
Must come to an end
That’s when your heartaches beginLove is a thing
You never can share
When you bring a friend
Into your love affair
That’s the end of your sweetheart
That’s the end of your friend
That’s when your heartaches beginIf you find your sweetheart
In the arms of your best friend
Brother, that’s, that’s when your heartaches begin
And you know, when all of your dreams
When all of your dreams of a lifetime, must all come to an end
Well, that’s, that’s when your heartaches beginYou see love is a thing that
That you never can share
And when you bring a friend
When you bring a friend into your love affair
That’s the end of your sweetheart
That’s the end of your friend
That’s the when your heartaches begin