Elvis Presley – “Help Me”

Introduction:

Ah, Elvis Presley’s “Help Me”. Released in 1975, this gospel-tinged ballad falls on the tail end of a truly remarkable career. Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, had already conquered the world with his electrifying blend of rhythm and blues, country, and pop. But by the mid-70s, his sound had matured, reflecting a deeper introspection alongside his signature charisma.

“Help Me” wasn’t an original Presley composition. It was written by Larry Gatlin, a name more associated with country music later in the decade. Originally recorded by blues legend Sonny Boy Williamson II in 1963, the song resonated with Presley, who delivered it with a raw vulnerability that surprised many fans accustomed to his earlier swagger.

Produced by Felton Jarvis, a longtime collaborator who helmed many of Presley’s recordings at the American Sound Studio in Memphis, “Help Me” showcased a stripped-down arrangement. The piano, played by the legendary session musician Donnie (Donnie Fritts) Fritts, sets the stage with a simple yet poignant melody. Presley’s voice, devoid of excessive effects, takes center stage. It’s a voice seasoned by life, capable of expressing both weariness and a yearning for solace.

“Help Me” didn’t quite achieve the chart success of Presley’s earlier hits. Released on the album Promised Land, it found a devoted audience among fans who appreciated this shift in his artistic direction. However, the song’s legacy extends far beyond its initial commercial reception. It became a staple of Presley’s live performances throughout the 70s, a testament to its power to connect with audiences on an emotional level.

“Help Me” stands as a poignant reminder of Presley’s versatility as a vocalist. It’s a song that transcends genre, a plea for strength delivered with a soulful sincerity that cuts deep. It’s a testament to Presley’s ability to evolve as an artist, even as his career neared its twilight. So, let’s delve into this lesser-known gem, a song that reveals a side of the King that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Help Me”