Elvis Presley – Tonight Is So Right For Love

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “Tonight Is So Right For Love”. Released in 1960, this little gem is a prime example of Elvis in his prime – a charismatic vocalist, a heartthrob with a twinkle in his eye, and a performer who could infuse a simple melody with an irresistible dose of rock and roll swagger.

The song itself is a delightful slice of romantic pop, a genre Elvis would frequent throughout his career. Composed by Sid Wayne and Abner Silver, with backing vocals from the legendary Jordanaires, “Tonight Is So Right For Love” isn’t trying to break musical boundaries. It’s pure, unadulterated charm, a short and sweet serenade perfect for setting the mood for a summer night.

Now, 1960 was a pivotal year for Elvis. Fresh out of the army, he was ready to reassert his dominance in the music scene. He’d already established himself as a king with hits like “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock,” but “G.I. Blues,” the film from which “Tonight Is So Right For Love” originates, marked his triumphant return.

The soundtrack for “G.I. Blues” was a commercial juggernaut, topping the Billboard 200 chart for a staggering 10 weeks. Elvis, ever the showman, also ensured the film’s success. His playful charisma and undeniable stage presence translated beautifully to the silver screen, solidifying his status as a pop culture icon.

Within the film itself, “Tonight Is So Right For Love” appears during a pivotal scene. Elvis’ character, Tulsa McLean, is on leave from the army in Germany and enjoying a moonlit rendezvous with his girlfriend, played by Juliet Prowse. The song perfectly captures the romantic tension and carefree joy of the moment.

Musically, the track is a masterclass in simplicity. A gentle guitar strumming lays the foundation, punctuated by a steady drumbeat. The Jordanaires’ smooth harmonies blend seamlessly with Elvis’s signature vocals, which are both playful and yearning. The lyrics themselves are straightforward, a young man expressing his desire for love under the perfect night sky. Lines like “Hold me tight, the moon is so bright, Tonight is so right for love” are delivered with a sincerity that’s impossible to resist.

“Tonight Is So Right For Love” may not be Elvis’s most complex or groundbreaking song. But it’s a testament to his enduring appeal. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most effective music is the kind that speaks directly to the heart. It’s a short, sweet serenade, a timeless declaration of love under the summer moon, delivered by the King himself. So put on your blue suede shoes, crank up the volume, and let Elvis serenade you with a song that proves – yes, indeed – tonight is so right for love.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Tonight Is So Right For Love”
(from “G.I. Blues” soundtrack)