Introduction:
Nestled amidst the electrifying rock and roll anthems that defined Elvis Presley’s early career lies a hidden gem: “Fountain of Love”. Released in 1962 as part of the album “Pot Luck”, this ballad showcases a different facet of the King’s artistry, venturing into the realm of heartfelt romanticism.
Elvis Presley, a name synonymous with rock and roll’s rebellious spirit, needed no introduction by 1962. His electrifying stage presence, coupled with his smooth vocals and suggestive dance moves, had already catapulted him to international superstardom. However, “Fountain of Love” reveals a more tender side of Presley, showcasing his ability to deliver a powerful ballad with genuine emotional depth.
The song’s genesis can be traced back to songwriting duo Jeff Lewis and Bill Giant. Known for crafting pop hits for artists like The Everly Brothers and Ricky Nelson, Lewis and Giant imbued “Fountain of Love” with a classic ballad structure, featuring a gentle melody and introspective lyrics. The production, overseen by RCA staff producer Steve Sholes, further accentuated the song’s romantic atmosphere. Sholes, a veteran producer who had worked with Presley on numerous recordings, opted for a stripped-down arrangement, featuring a prominent piano and tasteful backing vocals by The Jordanaires.
“Fountain of Love” stands out from the more frenetic rock and roll numbers that dominated Presley’s early recordings. While it didn’t achieve the chart-topping success of some of his earlier hits, the song resonated with a dedicated segment of his fanbase. It showcased Presley’s vocal versatility, proving he could deliver a soulful ballad with just as much conviction as his signature rock and roll anthems.
Despite its relatively lower chart performance, “Fountain of Love” has garnered a devoted following over the years. Fans and critics alike have praised the song’s sincerity and Elvis’s heartfelt performance. It serves as a testament to the King’s ability to transcend genre limitations and connect with audiences on an emotional level. Today, “Fountain of Love” remains a cherished treasure for Elvis aficionados, a reminder of his artistic depth and enduring legacy.
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Lyrics:
One thought of youMy heart begins churningI feel returnTo a fountain of loveMy lips and eyesThey ache to be near youTo hold you hereIn my fountain of loveNever be blueShould your world start sinkingJust come and drinkFrom my fountain of loveWe’ll build a new worldOff on a high mountainWe’ll live on our fountain of loveOne thought of youMy heart begins churningI feel returnTo a fountain of loveMy lips and eyesThey ache to be near youTo hold you hereIn my fountain of loveNever be blueShould your world start sinkingJust come and drinkFrom my fountain of loveWe’ll build a new worldOff on a high mountainWe’ll live on our fountain of loveWe’ll live on our fountain of loveWe’ll live on our fountain of loveWe’ll live on our fountain of love