Introduction:
“Release Me” is a song that became one of Elvis Presley’s notable performances, though it was not originally his creation. The song itself was penned by Eddie Miller, Dub Williams, and Robert Yount in the 1940s, with an early version being recorded by country singer Eddie Miller in 1946. However, it gained widespread recognition when country legend Ray Price recorded it in 1954. The most famous version of the song, though, came from Engelbert Humperdinck in 1967, which became a global hit, especially in the UK, where it reached No. 1 on the charts.
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Release Me” is part of his live performances rather than a studio album release. He first performed the song live during the famous 1970 “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is” concert, a documentary-style film that showcased his Las Vegas performances. Elvis’s rendition of “Release Me” was an electrifying moment, highlighting his ability to bridge genres, as the song blends country and pop influences with his unique rock ‘n’ roll twist.
Though the song was never officially released as a single by Presley, his live performance of it remains one of the most remembered versions, often capturing his vocal depth and emotive delivery. By the time Elvis performed “Release Me,” it was already considered a standard in country and pop music, but his interpretation gave it a distinctive flair that only he could provide.
Elvis’s version of “Release Me” falls under the genres of country and pop, with a strong gospel influence in his live rendition. While it was not part of a specific studio album, it became a staple of his live performances in the 1970s, particularly during his iconic Las Vegas residencies. His ability to breathe new life into established songs like “Release Me” further cemented his reputation as a performer who could transcend musical boundaries, adapting various styles to fit his own.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Release Me”
Oh, please release me, let me go
For I just don’t love you anymore
To waste our lives would be a sin
Oh, release me and let me love againOh, I have found a new love dear
And I will always want her near
Her lips are warm while yours are cold
Oh, release me, my darling let me goOh, please release me, let me go
For I just don’t love you anymore
To waste our lives would be a sin
Oh, release me and let me love againOh, please release me, let me go
For I just don’t love you anymore
To waste our lives would be a sin
Oh, release me and let me love againLet me go
Oh, release me
My darling, let me go
Let me go, let me go