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Introduction:

I’m Leavin’, a 1971 ballad by the legendary Elvis Presley, marked a departure from his earlier, high-energy rock and roll sound. This track, released as a single with “Heart of Rome” on the B-side, leaned into a more soulful and introspective mood. Written by Sonny Charles and Michael Jarrett, I’m Leavin’ was produced during a prolific period for Presley, who recorded it on May 20, 1971 with the Imperials, a gospel quartet known for their rich harmonies.

I’m Leavin’ Though it wasn’t one of Presley’s biggest hits, reaching number 36 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number 23 on the UK Singles Chart, it did find a place among his dedicated fanbase. The song’s emotional delivery and relatable themes of heartbreak and moving on resonated with listeners. I’m Leavin’ was later included on the 1980 box set Elvis Aron Presley , showcasing Presley’s versatility as a musician who could deliver both electrifying rock and roll anthems and soulful ballads.

While I’m Leavin’ didn’t replicate the chart-topping success of Presley’s earlier releases, it offered a glimpse into his artistic evolution during the 1970s. This period saw him experimenting with different genres, including country, gospel, and soul, while still maintaining his signature charisma. I’m Leavin’ stands as a testament to Presley’s ability to connect with audiences through his music, regardless of genre or chart position.

Video:

Lyrics:

(words & music by jarrett / charles)
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la

Well i know, if i’d arrived in time to know you
You’d have taken the time to show me
I wouldn’t be lonely

Where will i go, who will i have to lie beside me
Is it something that’s inside me
I’m so lonely

Tried so hard each time, each time i just can’t make it
Feelin’ fast vibrations and i just can’t take it
Living from day to day, chasing the dream
I’m, i’m leavin

La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la

Tried so hard each time, each time i just can’t make it
Feelin’ fast vibrations and i just can’t take it
Living from day to day, chasing the dream
I’m, i’m leavin

La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
I’m, i’m leavin
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la
La la la la la la la la la la la la la