Snowbird – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Snowbird” was originally written by Canadian songwriter Gene MacLellan and became a significant hit for Anne Murray in 1969, propelling her to international fame. The song’s metaphorical lyrics about a bird flying south to escape winter resonated with themes of freedom and escape. Elvis Presley, a fan of Anne Murray, decided to cover the song in 1970.

Elvis included his rendition of “Snowbird” on his Elvis Country (I’m 10,000 Years Old) album, released in January 1971. The album marked a return to his country roots, blending rock, pop, and country elements. Presley’s version of “Snowbird” showcases his more introspective, mature style during the later years of his career. His vocal performance is tender and understated, emphasizing the melancholic tone of the song’s lyrics. While it did not achieve the commercial success of Murray’s version, Elvis’s rendition is beloved by fans for its emotional depth and remains a standout track in his country catalog.

The song reflects a period when Elvis was exploring contemporary material, often covering modern songs and interpreting them through his unique musical lens. His “Snowbird” cover is considered a subtle, heartfelt interpretation, further demonstrating his versatility as an artist across multiple genres.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Snowbird”

Beneath this snowy mantle cold and clean
The unborn grass lies waiting
for its coat to turn to green
The snowbird sings a song he always sings
And speaks to me of flowers
that will bloom again in springWhen I was young my heart was young then too
Anything that it would tell me,
that’s the thing that I would do
But now I feel such emptiness within
For the thing that I want most in life
Is the thing I can’t win

Spread your tiny wings and fly away
And take the snow back with you
Where it came from on that day
The one I love forever is untrue
And if I could you know
that I would fly away with you

The breeze along the river seems to say
That she’ll only break my heart again
should I decide to stay
So little snowbird take me with you when you go
To that land of gentle breezes
where the peaceful waters flow