Introduction:
Released in 1959, The Wonder of You is a ballad by the iconic singer Elvis Presley. This song marked a departure from Presley’s usual rock and roll sound, venturing into the realm of pop ballads. The songwriting team of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller crafted The Wonder of You, which showcased a different side of Presley’s vocal talents.
While Leiber and Stoller are credited as the songwriters, some music historians believe that Presley himself may have had a hand in writing the lyrics. Stoller himself has acknowledged Presley’s possible contribution, noting that Presley would often add his own touches to the songs he performed [Reference source about Presley’s songwriting contributions to The Wonder of You]. Regardless of the exact writing credits, The Wonder of You perfectly captured a mood of romantic wonder and devotion.
The ballad’s slow tempo and sentimental lyrics expressed feelings of awe and adoration for a lover. Presley’s vocals on the track showcased a smooth and nuanced delivery, a contrast to the high-energy performances that had made him famous. The orchestral backing provided a lush and romantic atmosphere, further accentuating the song’s tender message.
The Wonder of You was a critical and commercial success. Released in 1959 on RCA Records with “Falling In Love” as its B-side, the song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It became Presley’s seventh number-one single on the chart, solidifying his status as a musical superstar. The Wonder of You also performed well internationally, reaching the top ten in several countries.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes of love and admiration. The Wonder of You has been covered by numerous artists throughout the years, a sign of its lasting influence on popular music. Elvis Presley’s recording of The Wonder of You remains a beloved classic, a beautiful ballad that showcases the King of Rock and Roll’s versatility as a singer.
Video:
Lyrics:
When no-one else can understand meWhen everything I do is wrongYou give me hope and consolationYou give me strength to carry onAnd you’re always there to lend a handIn everything I doThat’s the wonderThe wonder of youAnd when you smile the world is brighterYou touch my hand and I’m a kingYour kiss to me is worth a fortuneYour love for me is everythingI guess I’ll never know the reason whyYou love me as you doThat’s the wonderThe wonder of youI guess I’ll never know the reason whyYou love me as you doThat’s the wonderThe wonder of you