Elvis Presley – For The Heart

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “For The Heart”. Released in 1976, this hidden gem sits nestled on the B-side of his single “Hurt.” Now, for those unfamiliar with the B-side, it was a record company’s practice back in the day to place a lesser-known, but often equally captivating song on the flip side of a major release. “For The Heart” certainly fits that description.

Elvis was, of course, the undisputed king of rock and roll by the 1970s. His electrifying performances and genre-bending hits had already secured his place in music history. However, the 70s saw a shift in his sound. The raw energy of his early years softened somewhat, evolving into a more soulful and introspective style. “For The Heart” beautifully exemplifies this transition.

Composed by the talented Dennis Linde, the song is a masterclass in country-tinged balladry. Linde, a frequent collaborator with Elvis throughout the decade, penned numerous heartfelt tunes that resonated deeply with the King’s mature voice. Here, the melancholic piano melody sets the stage, a gentle rain falling on a lonesome heart. The rhythm section, with its subtle bass line and understated drums, creates a bed of emotional vulnerability.

Elvis steps in with a vocal performance that is simply stunning. Gone are the flamboyant theatrics of his younger days. Here, he delivers a nuanced and controlled performance, brimming with raw emotion. The opening lines, “Had a dream about you, baby, had a dream about me and you / Had a dream and woke up crying,” paint a vivid picture of a love lost, a yearning that lingers long after the relationship has faded.

The beauty of “For The Heart” lies in its simplicity. It’s a song that doesn’t rely on flashy production or complex arrangements. Instead, it focuses on the core elements of good music: a relatable story, a powerful melody, and a truly captivating vocal performance. While it may not have garnered the same radio play as some of Elvis’s earlier hits, “For The Heart” has earned a devoted following among fans who appreciate the depth and sincerity it conveys.

Interestingly, the song wasn’t credited to Presley and Linde on the original release. Back then, record companies sometimes used pseudonyms for B-sides, perhaps to avoid overshadowing the A-side single. Thankfully, later reissues have rightfully attributed the song to its rightful creators.

Though commercially overshadowed by its A-side counterpart, “For The Heart” stands as a testament to Elvis’s enduring talent and his ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level. It’s a song that deserves a place in the vast Elvis Presley canon, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by new generations of music lovers.

Video:

Lyrics:

“For The Heart”