Introduction:
“My Way” is a song that has been interpreted by numerous artists, but Elvis Presley’s rendition stands out for its emotional depth and personal resonance. Originally a French song titled “Comme d’habitude,” composed by Jacques Revaux with lyrics by Claude François and Gilles Thibault, it was transformed into “My Way” with English lyrics by Paul Anka. Anka tailored the lyrics specifically for Frank Sinatra, who recorded it in 1968, making it one of his signature songs.
Elvis Presley first recorded a studio version of “My Way” on June 10, 1971, at RCA Studio B in Nashville. However, this version remained unreleased until it appeared on the box set “Walk a Mile in My Shoes: The Essential ’70s Masters” in 1995. Presley introduced “My Way” to his live performances during the early 1970s, with one of the most notable renditions occurring on January 14, 1973, during his “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite” concert. This performance was broadcast live to numerous countries and showcased Presley’s ability to convey deep emotion through his vocal delivery.
Following Presley’s untimely death in August 1977, a live recording of “My Way” from his June 21, 1977, concert in Rapid City, South Dakota, was released as a single on October 3, 1977. This version achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 6 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart in the United States. It also attained gold certification for sales exceeding one million copies. In the United Kingdom, the single peaked at number 9 on the UK Singles Chart.
Presley’s interpretation of “My Way” is often classified within the pop and adult contemporary genres. His rendition is distinguished by its heartfelt delivery and the poignant connection between the song’s lyrics and his own life experiences. The themes of self-determination and reflection in “My Way” resonated with Presley’s personal journey, especially during the later years of his career. This connection added a layer of authenticity to his performances, making the song a memorable part of his musical legacy.
In summary, Elvis Presley’s version of “My Way” is a significant entry in his discography, reflecting both his artistic versatility and his ability to imbue songs with personal meaning. The song’s success on various music charts and its enduring popularity among fans underscore its importance in Presley’s body of work.