Introduction:
“Help Me Make It Through the Night” is a poignant country ballad written by the acclaimed American songwriter Kris Kristofferson. Though the song is widely associated with its early performers, notably Sammi Smith—whose version became a major hit in 1970—Elvis Presley recorded his own rendition in 1973. Presley’s version was featured on the album “Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite”, an iconic live album that marked a significant moment in music history. This album was released in February 1973 and showcased a live concert broadcasted worldwide via satellite, a technological first at the time, which contributed to Presley’s enduring legacy as the King of Rock and Roll.
The song itself, “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” is a slow, intimate ballad that revolves around themes of loneliness and emotional vulnerability. Its lyrics express a yearning for companionship and a desire to escape the emptiness of the night through human connection, making it a deeply relatable piece of music. Kristofferson’s straightforward yet evocative songwriting resonated with audiences across various genres, though it was primarily regarded as a country song.
Elvis Presley, known primarily for his rock and roll career, often explored different musical styles, and his take on this song was no exception. While Sammi Smith’s version is typically regarded as one of the most successful—earning her a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1972—Presley’s cover added a layer of his signature style to the track. His rendition carries a more polished, soulful feel, incorporating elements of both country and easy-listening, which aligned with his versatile approach to music during the 1970s.
Although Presley’s version didn’t achieve the commercial success of some of his earlier hits, it stands as an example of his ability to bring new depth and meaning to songs outside his typical rock genre. His live performance of the song, especially in the “Aloha from Hawaii” concert, remains a memorable part of his legacy, illustrating his ability to reinterpret songs and make them his own.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Help Me Make It Through The Night”
Take the ribbon from your hair
Shake it loose, let it fall
Lay it soft against my skin
Like the shadow on the wallCome and lay down by my side
Till the early morning light
All I’m taking is your time
Help me make it through the nightI don’t care what’s right or wrong
I won’t try to understand
Let the devil take tomorrow
‘Cause tonight I need a friendYesterday is dead and gone
And tomorrow’s out of sight
And it’s sad to be alone
Help me make it through the nightI don’t care what’s right or wrong
I won’t try to understand
Let the devil take tomorrow
‘Cause tonight I need a friendYesterday is dead and gone
And tomorrow’s out of sight
And it’s sad to be alone
Help me make it through the nightI don’t want to be alone
Help me make it through the night