Elvis Presley- “I Beg Of You”

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “I Beg Of You”. Released in 1957, this ballad sits at a fascinating crossroads in Presley’s career. Here we have the undeniable charisma and raw vocal power that made him a rock and roll pioneer, but also a glimpse of his developing versatility as a singer.

Commercially, “I Beg Of You” wasn’t quite a chart-topper, peaking at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100. However, its influence and enduring popularity are undeniable. It cemented Presley’s status as a heartthrob with a sensitive side, a counterpoint to his more rebellious image.

The song itself is a masterclass in emotional delivery. Written by Teddy Randazzo, a prolific songwriter behind many a doo-wop classic, “I Beg Of You” unfolds with a simple yet effective structure. A gentle piano melody sets the stage, soon joined by a tasteful arrangement of strings and backing vocals. The absence of drums allows Presley’s voice to take center stage.

This is where things get interesting. Presley doesn’t attack the song with the full-throated gusto he brought to earlier hits like “Hound Dog” or “Jailhouse Rock.” Instead, he dials it back, employing a pleading vulnerability that resonates deeply. His signature swagger is replaced by a desperate sincerity, a man on his knees begging for a lost love’s return. There’s a tremor in his voice, a raw edge that conveys the depths of his pain.

“I Beg Of You” wasn’t produced by Presley’s usual collaborator, Colonel Tom Parker. Here, the production reigns were handed to Hal Wallis, a Hollywood heavyweight known for films like “Casablanca” and “The Godfather.” Wallis, overseeing the soundtrack for the movie Loving You in which Presley starred, recognized the vulnerability in Presley’s voice and the song’s potential to showcase a different side of the young singer. His instincts were spot on.

The impact of “I Beg Of You” transcended the charts. It became a staple of Presley’s live shows, a moment where the king of rock and roll could connect with his audience on a deeper level. Countless artists, from crooners to rockers, have covered the song, a testament to its timeless melody and Presley’s masterful delivery.

So, while “I Beg Of You” might not have been a chart-burning smash, its legacy is undeniable. It stands as a turning point in Presley’s career, a glimpse of the multifaceted performer he would become. It’s a song that showcases both his raw talent and his developing ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. It’s a ballad that lingers long after the last note fades, a testament to the enduring power of Presley’s voice and the simple yet profound message of love and loss.

Video:

Lyrics:

“I Beg Of You”