Elvis Presley – Just Pretend

Introduction:

Just Pretend, a melancholic ballad released in 1970, showcases a different side of the iconic rock and roll singer, Elvis Presley. This tender song, produced by Felton Jarvis for RCA Studios, arrived during a period of transition in Presley’s career. Following his dominance of the music scene in the 1950s, the 1960s saw Presley primarily focused on soundtrack recordings for his Hollywood films. By the end of the decade, he was eager to return to live performances and reconnect with his musical roots.

Just Pretend was featured on the documentary film, Elvis: That’s the Way It Is, which chronicled Presley’s 1970 Las Vegas residency. The film not only captured the electrifying energy of his live shows but also provided an intimate look at the singer’s personal life and creative process. Just Pretend served as a poignant counterpoint to the film’s high-octane concert footage. The song’s introspective lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and longing, offering a glimpse into Presley’s emotional state during this pivotal time in his career.

Just Pretend was not a chart-topping hit on the scale of Presley’s earlier releases, but it resonated with many fans. The song’s vulnerability and sincerity struck a chord with those who had followed Presley’s career and witnessed his evolution as a performer. Over the years, Just Pretend has become a cherished track for fans who appreciate Presley’s versatility as a vocalist and his ability to deliver a powerful ballad.

While Just Pretend may not be one of Presley’s most commercially successful songs, it is a significant entry in his vast catalog. The song stands as a testament to his enduring talent and his enduring influence on popular music. Just Pretend serves as a reminder that even the King of Rock and Roll could deliver a moving and heartfelt ballad.

Video:

Lyrics:

Just pretend, I’m holding you
And whispering things soft and low
And think of me, how it’s gonna be
Just pretend I didn’t go
When I walked away, I heard you say
If you need me, you know what to do
I knew it then, I’d be back again
Just pretend I’m right there with you

And I’ll come flying to you, oh yes
All the crying is true
Oh, I will hold you and love you again
But until then, we’ll just pretend

It’s funny but I can’t recall
The things we said or why you’re crying
But now I know it was wrong to go
I belong here by your side

Yes, I’ll come flying to you, oh yes
All the crying is true
I will hold you and love you again
But until then, we’ll just pretend

Oh, I will hold you and love you again
But until then, until then, we’ll just pretend
We’ll just pretend