Release Me – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Release Me,” recorded live during a midnight show at The International Hotel in Las Vegas on February 18, 1970, is a powerful interpretation of an already well-loved classic. Originally written by Eddie Miller, Robert Yount, and Dub Williams, “Release Me” gained popularity as a ballad in the 1960s through artists like Engelbert Humperdinck. However, Elvis’s version brought a unique energy to the track, blending his signature style with the raw atmosphere of a live performance. His arrangement included not only his iconic vocals but also contributions from a robust lineup of talented musicians, such as guitarists James Burton and John Wilkinson, bassist Jerry Scheff, and drummer Bob Lanning.

This rendition showcases a deeper emotional resonance, with Elvis’s powerful delivery adding a sense of yearning that connects with listeners. The performance also featured prominent backup from The Sweet Inspirations and The Imperials, enhancing the emotional layers with gospel-infused harmonies. “Release Me” became a favorite in Elvis’s live shows and was later included on his On Stage album, which captures several memorable performances from this Vegas engagement.

The song’s live recording approach allowed Elvis to interact with his audience, creating a more immersive experience that highlighted his charismatic stage presence. As with many of his other 1970s live recordings, this version of “Release Me” remains a testament to Elvis’s ability to make any song uniquely his own, blending the pop, gospel, and rock elements that defined his career. The official site of Elvis Presley, along with other music archives, provides further insights into this iconic recording.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Release Me”