Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s “If That Isn’t Love”. Released in 1974, this poignant ballad showcases a different side of the King – a man not just known for his electrifying rock and roll, but also for his tender and soulful vocals.
This song arrived during a pivotal era in Presley’s career. The early, frenetic days of rock and roll had given way to a more mature sound. Presley, ever the innovator, was embracing genres like country and gospel, infusing them with his own undeniable charisma. “If That Isn’t Love” falls squarely within this period, a beautiful example of Presley’s ability to navigate the complexities of love and loss with a captivating vulnerability.
The mastermind behind the track was producer Billy Swan. Swan, a seasoned songwriter himself, had a keen understanding of Presley’s talents and the direction he was heading musically. Swan crafted a melancholic yet hopeful melody, perfectly suited for Presley’s rich baritone. The instrumentation is understated, relying heavily on a gentle piano and a tasteful string arrangement that swells at key moments, adding a layer of emotional depth.
“If That Isn’t Love” isn’t a chart-topping smash hit in the mold of Presley’s earlier sun-drenched rock and roll anthems. However, its quiet power and heartfelt delivery resonated with a dedicated audience. It became a fan favorite, a song that showcased Presley’s remarkable vocal range and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
This ballad is a testament to Presley’s artistic evolution. It’s a song that transcends genre, a timeless exploration of the all-encompassing power of love. Here, we hear a mature Presley, grappling with heartache and longing, yet ultimately clinging to a sliver of hope. It’s a side of the King that is often overlooked, but one that deserves to be celebrated. So, when you listen to “If That Isn’t Love,” prepare to be enveloped by Presley’s masterful storytelling and his unmatched ability to convey the raw emotions of the human experience.
Video:
Lyrics:
“If That Isn’t Love”
Knowing His destiny
Was the lonely hill of Golgotha
There to lay down His life for meAnd if that isn’t love
Then the ocean is dry
There’s no stars in the sky
And the little sparrows can’t fly
Yeah if that isn’t love
Then heaven’s a myth
There’s no feeling like this
If that isn’t loveEven in death He remembered
The thief hanging by His side
Then he spoke of love and compassion
And He took him to paradiseAnd if that isn’t love
Then the ocean is dry
There’s no stars in the sky
And the little sparrows can’t fly
Yeah if that isn’t love
Then heaven’s a myth
There’s no feeling like this
If that isn’t love It’s got to be love