Introduction:
“Life” is a song by Elvis Presley, released as a single on April 27, 1971. It was later included in his album “Love Letters from Elvis,” which was released on June 16, 1971. The song falls within the gospel genre and reflects Presley’s deep-rooted affinity for spiritual and inspirational music.
Background and Recording
The song “Life” was penned by songwriter Shirl Milete, who had originally recorded it in 1969. Elvis Presley, known for his eclectic taste and willingness to explore various musical styles, was drawn to the song’s profound lyrics and gospel undertones. He recorded “Life” on June 6, 1970, at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee. This session was part of a marathon recording period where Presley aimed to produce a diverse array of tracks for upcoming projects.
The recording session featured a lineup of esteemed musicians:
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Guitarists: James Burton, Chip Young, and Elvis Presley himself
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Bass: Norbert Putnam
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Drums: Jerry Carrigan
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Piano: David Briggs
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Organ and Harmonica: Charlie McCoy
The session also included overdubs with additional instruments such as steel guitar, trumpet, saxophone, flute, clarinet, trombone, and a rich ensemble of backing vocalists, including The Jordanaires and The Imperials. This orchestration contributed to the song’s expansive and soulful sound.
Musical Composition and Themes
“Life” is characterized by its gospel-oriented ballad structure that builds into a substantial production. The song’s lyrics delve into existential themes, exploring the origins of life, the interplay between good and evil, and the overarching power of love. Presley’s emotive delivery conveys a sense of introspection and spiritual contemplation, aligning with his personal connection to gospel music.
The song begins with a reflection on the creation of the universe, suggesting a divine intelligence behind existence:
“Somewhere out in empty space, long before the human race, something stirred.”
As the narrative progresses, it touches upon the emergence of life, the advent of humanity, and the moral challenges faced by mankind. The chorus emphasizes the eternal nature of life and love, reinforcing the song’s spiritual message.
Release and Reception
Upon its release as a single, “Life” was paired with “Only Believe” as the B-side. The single achieved moderate success across various Billboard charts:
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Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at No. 53
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Easy Listening chart: Reached No. 8
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Country Singles chart: Attained No. 34
These chart positions reflect the song’s cross-genre appeal, resonating with audiences beyond the traditional gospel and pop spheres.
Critical reception of “Life” highlighted its ambitious production and thematic depth. Billboard magazine, in its May 8, 1971 issue, described the track as “a gospel-oriented ballad that builds into a heavy production.” This assessment underscores the song’s dynamic arrangement and Presley’s powerful vocal performance.
Inclusion in “Love Letters from Elvis”
“Life” was subsequently featured on the album “Love Letters from Elvis,” which compiled tracks from the June 1970 Nashville recording sessions. The album showcased Presley’s versatility, blending genres such as gospel, country, and pop. While “Love Letters from Elvis” did not achieve the commercial success of some of his earlier works, it remains a testament to his artistic exploration and commitment to diverse musical expressions.
Legacy
Though not one of Presley’s most commercially successful singles, “Life” stands out for its introspective lyrics and gospel influence, reflecting his personal beliefs and musical roots. The song exemplifies Presley’s ability to infuse profound meaning into his music, offering listeners a glimpse into his contemplative side. Over the years, “Life” has been included in various compilations, such as “Walk a Mile in My Shoes – The Essential 70’s Masters” (1995) and “Peace in the Valley” (2000), ensuring its continued appreciation among fans and music enthusiasts.
In summary, “Life” is a notable entry in Elvis Presley’s discography, capturing his spiritual inclinations and his talent for delivering emotionally resonant performances. Its release in 1971 adds to the rich tapestry of his musical legacy, highlighting a period where he delved into themes of existence, morality, and the enduring power of love.