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Introduction:

Released in 1972, Always On My Mind is a soulful ballad delivered by the legendary Elvis Presley. The song was originally written by Wayne Carson and Johnny Christopher in 1960 but gained significant recognition only after Presley’s rendition. Produced by Felton Jarvis, the melancholic tune explores themes of longing, regret, and enduring love for a lost partner.

Always On My Mind became a massive commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and reaching number two in the United Kingdom. The song also garnered critical acclaim, winning two Grammy Awards in 1973 for Best Pop Vocal Male and Record of the Year.

Always On My Mind‘s path to becoming an Elvis Presley signature song is an interesting one. By 1 the early 1970s, Presley’s career had undergone a shift. His energetic rock and roll performances of the 1950s had given way to a focus on ballads and live shows in Las Vegas. In 1970, he separated from his wife Priscilla, and some believe that the emotional turmoil of this period is reflected in the heartfelt lyrics of Always On My Mind.

The song itself has a fascinating history. Songwriters Wayne Carson and Johnny Christopher originally composed Always On My Mind in 1960. It was first recorded by Brenda Lee in 1960 and became a minor country hit. Over the next decade, the song was covered by numerous artists with varying degrees of success. However, it wasn’t until Presley’s 1972 recording that Always On My Mind achieved widespread recognition.

Presley’s version stands out for its raw emotion and vulnerability. His powerful vocals deliver the lyrics with a deep sincerity that resonates with listeners. The song’s melancholic melody and Presley’s nuanced performance create a powerful testament to enduring love and regret.

The success of Always On My Mind helped solidify Presley’s status as a musical icon. The song’s critical and commercial acclaim proved that he could excel in genres beyond rock and roll. Always On My Mind continues to be a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists across various genres. It remains a powerful testament to Presley’s enduring legacy and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.

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Lyrics:

“Always On My Mind”

Maybe I didn’t treat you
Quite as good as I should have
Maybe I didn’t love you
Quite as often as I could have
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time

You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind

Maybe I didn’t hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I’m so happy that you’re mine
If I made you feel second best
Girl, I’m so sorry I was blind

You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind

Tell me, tell me that your sweet love hasn’t died
Give me, give me one more chance
To keep you satisfied, satisfied

Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time

You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind

Maybe I didn’t treat you
Quite as good as I should have
Maybe I didn’t love you
Quite as often as I could have
Maybe I didn’t hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I’m so happy that you’re mine
Maybe I didn’t treat you
Quite as good as I should have