Elvis Presley – “Love Me Tender” (Live 1970)

Let’s rewind a bit. 1956 was a pivotal year for Elvis. Rock and roll, still a fledgling genre, was starting to take America by storm. Elvis, with his undeniable charisma and that unique blend of blues and country influences in his voice, was right there at the forefront. “Love Me Tender” was his first foray into film, starring in a Civil War drama of the same name. The ballad, originally titled “Aura Lee,” was rewritten for the movie with new lyrics that fit the narrative.

Though the film itself wasn’t a critical darling, the song became an instant sensation. It topped the Billboard charts for weeks, even facing controversy for its suggestive lyrics (rather tame by today’s standards, mind you). This wasn’t just another rock and roll tune; it showcased Elvis’s softer side, his ability to deliver a heartfelt ballad. It broadened his appeal, bringing him not just to the screaming teenage fans, but also to a more mature audience.

Fast forward to 1970. Elvis is a seasoned performer now, years removed from his initial Sun Studio recordings. Las Vegas is his stomping ground, his residencies at the International Hotel (later the Hilton) legendary. Rock and roll itself has evolved, branched out into subgenres, and Elvis, ever the showman, has adapted.

So, what can we expect from a “Love Me Tender” (Live 1970)? Well, it certainly won’t be the same wide-eyed, hip-shaking rendition that captivated audiences in the 50s. This Elvis is older, perhaps a bit heavier, but his voice still retains that magnetism. There might be a touch more grit in his delivery, a deeper understanding of the emotions woven into the lyrics. It’ll likely be a slower tempo, allowing him to dwell on the yearning and tenderness in the song.

This live performance becomes a fascinating time capsule. It’s Elvis revisiting a signature song, a song that helped propel him to superstardom, but through the lens of his matured voice and a changing musical landscape. It’s a chance to witness the evolution of a legend, to see how he reinterprets a classic for a new decade, for a new generation of fans.

So, settle in, and prepare to be transported back to 1970, to a Las Vegas stage bathed in lights, and hear the King himself belt out a song that transcended time and genre: Elvis Presley’s “Love Me Tender” (Live 1970).