Introduction:
“I Just Can’t Help Believin'” is a live hit performed by Elvis Presley in 1970, included in his That’s the Way It Is album. Originally written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, the song had previously been recorded by B.J. Thomas in 1968, but it was Presley’s version that became iconic. It was recorded live during his Las Vegas concert series in August 1970 and marked a high point in his return to live performances.
The song became one of Presley’s notable tracks from this era, reaching No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart and peaking at No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. Additionally, it topped the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. Presley’s heartfelt and soulful delivery, combined with the gentle instrumentation featuring strings and piano, gave the song a soft, romantic feel. His live performances of the song were particularly notable for the emotion he conveyed, captivating audiences with his vocal expression and stage presence.
“I Just Can’t Help Believin’” has been remembered as one of the standout tracks of Presley’s 1970 comeback period, illustrating his ability to deliver tender ballads just as well as his earlier rock hits. This period in his career saw him experimenting more with country and adult contemporary sounds, further solidifying his legendary status across multiple genres.
Video:
Lyrics:
“I Just Can’t Help Believin'”
(from “That’s The Way It Is” soundtrack)I just can’t help believin’
When she smiles up soft and gentle
With a trace of misty morning
And the promise of tomorrow in her eyesI just can’t help believin’
When she’s lying close beside me
And my heart beats with the rhythm of her sighs
This time the girl is gonna stay
This time the girl is gonna stay
For more than just a dayOh, I just can’t help believin’
When she slips her hand in my hand
And it feels so small and helpless
As my fingers fold around it like a gloveI just can’t help believin’
When she’s whispering her magic
And her tears are shining honey sweet with love
This time the girl is gonna stay
This time the girl is gonna stay
For more than just a day
For more than just a day