Introduction:
“As Long As I Have You” is a song performed by Elvis Presley. It’s a ballad that features prominently in one of his early films, adding to its significance in his discography. Here’s a detailed look into the song’s history:
Context and Release:
The song “As Long As I Have You” was recorded on January 16, 1958, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. This recording session was part of the soundtrack production for the film King Creole. The song was written by Fred Wise and Ben Weisman.
- Year of Release: 1958
- It was first released on the EP King Creole Vol. 1 (EPA 4319), which came out on July 1, 1958.
- It was also included in the King Creole album (LPM 1884), released on September 19, 1958.
- Album: King Creole
The King Creole album itself is a significant release in Elvis Presley’s career. It served as the soundtrack album for the 1958 film of the same name, in which Presley starred. The album showcases a blend of blues, rock and roll, and pop, reflecting the diverse musical influences that Presley brought to his work. King Creole was his fourth movie. The film was based on the 1952 novel A Stone for Danny Fisher by Harold Robbins. It was directed by Michael Curtiz.
The King Creole project was important for several reasons. Firstly, it was filmed and recorded before Presley entered the U.S. Army, marking a temporary pause in his burgeoning career. Secondly, many critics and fans consider the King Creole soundtrack to be one of Presley’s best, capturing him at a creative peak. The album demonstrates his ability to handle different musical styles, and “As Long As I Have You” is a prime example of his ballad singing.
Music Genre:
“As Long As I Have You” is primarily a ballad. Ballads are characterized by their slow tempo and focus on romantic or sentimental themes. In this song, Presley’s vocal delivery emphasizes the tender and devoted nature of the lyrics. While Elvis is predominantly known for rock and roll, he frequently incorporated ballads into his repertoire, showcasing his versatility as a vocalist. The song also has elements of pop.
Significance and Reception:
“As Long As I Have You” is not one of Elvis Presley’s most commercially successful singles in terms of chart performance. However, its significance lies in its role within the King Creole film and soundtrack. The song contributes to the film’s narrative and emotional depth, providing a romantic counterpoint to some of the more energetic rock and roll numbers also featured in the movie.
The song is representative of Elvis’s ability to convey deep emotion through his singing. His vocal performance is smooth and heartfelt, effectively communicating the song’s message of love and devotion. This song, like many of his ballads, highlights his vocal range and control, and his ability to connect with an audience on an emotional level.
While it may not have topped the charts, “As Long As I Have You” has remained a well-regarded song among Elvis Presley fans. It is often cited as one of his better ballad performances from the King Creole era. The song has been included in various Elvis Presley compilations over the years, further solidifying its place in his musical legacy.
Historical Context:
The late 1950s were a pivotal time in Elvis Presley’s career. He had already achieved massive success with his earlier rock and roll hits, and was solidifying his position as a cultural icon. During this period, he was also transitioning into acting, with King Creole being one of his more significant roles. The soundtrack for King Creole, including “As Long As I Have You,” reflects this period in his career, showcasing his musical versatility and his ability to adapt to different performance contexts. The song also provides a glimpse into the broader musical landscape of the time, when ballads held a prominent place in popular music.