Elvis Presley – Unchained Melody

Introduction:

Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Unchained Melody” stands as one of the most poignant performances of his career, marking a significant moment in his final days. Originally composed by Alex North and Hy Zaret in 1955, the song gained fame through numerous recordings, with the Righteous Brothers’ 1965 version being the most iconic. Elvis’s interpretation of the classic came during his final tour in 1977, a period when his health was rapidly declining due to years of physical and emotional struggles.

One of the most notable performances took place on June 21, 1977, in Rapid City, South Dakota, during a concert filmed for what would become his final TV special, Elvis in Concert. Seated at the piano, Elvis delivered a raw and deeply emotional version of the song, accompanied by his guitarist, Charlie Hodge, holding the microphone for him. Despite his physical frailty, his vocal power and connection to the material shone through, leaving the audience captivated. This performance has often been described as the “last great moment” of his career, highlighting the enduring strength of his voice amidst personal and health struggles​.

Elvis’s recording of “Unchained Melody” reflects the vulnerability and depth of his artistry, as he brought his unique blend of passion and authenticity to the song. This rendition has since been celebrated as a testament to his resilience and his profound impact on music history. It was one of the final demonstrations of his musical genius, as Elvis passed away just two months later, on August 16, 1977.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Unchained Melody”