Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s 1970 ballad, “Make the World Go Away”. Now that’s a song that evokes a certain era, doesn’t it? Released at the tail end of a tumultuous decade, it captured a mood of introspective yearning amidst the social and cultural upheavals of the time.
Presley, by then a seasoned performer, had already established himself as the undisputed King of Rock and Roll. But by the late 60s, the musical landscape was shifting. The British Invasion had brought a new wave of rock to the forefront, and Presley himself was looking to broaden his artistic horizons. “Make the World Go Away” reflected this evolution.
While it retains a touch of the Presley swagger we all know and love, the song leans more towards a soulful ballad style. The instrumentation is lush, with a prominent string section and gentle piano flourishes that underscore the introspective lyrics. It’s a far cry from the raw energy of his early rockabilly hits, but it showcases a different side of Presley’s remarkable vocal talent. His voice here is smooth and expressive, conveying a vulnerability and longing that resonates deeply with the listener.
The song’s producer, Felton Jarvis, deserves a good deal of credit for shaping this new direction. Jarvis, who had worked with Presley throughout the 60s, understood the changing musical tides and encouraged Presley to explore a more nuanced sound. “Make the World Go Away” stands as a testament to their successful collaboration.
The song itself wasn’t a chart-topper on the scale of some of Presley’s earlier hits. Released as part of his documentary film, “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is”, it resonated more with fans who appreciated Presley’s artistic growth. However, its impact has only grown over time. “Make the World Go Away” has become a beloved classic, a song that continues to touch listeners with its timeless themes of love, loss, and the desire to escape the troubles of the world.
There’s a universality to the song’s message that transcends generations. We’ve all, at some point, longed for a refuge from life’s storms, a place where worries melt away and love reigns supreme. “Make the World Go Away” captures that yearning with a sincerity and emotional depth that continues to resonate with audiences today. So, put on your favorite headphones, close your eyes, and let Presley’s voice transport you to a world where love conquers all, if only for a little while.