Introduction:
Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s 1970 ballad, There Goes My Everything. Now that’s a song that evokes a very specific time and place in American music history. Let’s delve into this gem and explore its significance.
By 1970, Elvis had already cemented his status as the King of Rock and Roll. A decade of electrifying performances, chart-topping hits, and cultural influence had solidified his position. However, the musical landscape was shifting. Rock and roll was fragmenting into various subgenres, and new artists were emerging with a rawer, grittier sound. Elvis, ever the astute performer, began to adapt.
There Goes My Everything belongs to a period in Elvis’s career often referred to as his “Vegas Years”. After a successful film run in the 1950s, Elvis returned to live performances in a big way, taking up a residency at the International Hotel in Las Vegas. These shows were extravagant affairs, featuring Elvis in dazzling costumes, backed by a full orchestra and a troupe of singers. The music itself leaned more towards ballads and soulful numbers, showcasing the depth and maturity of Elvis’s voice.
There Goes My Everything perfectly exemplifies this shift. Written by Dallas Frazier, the song is a classic country heartbreak ballad. The lyrics paint a picture of a love lost, with the protagonist lamenting the departure of their significant other. The melody is melancholic yet undeniably catchy, with Elvis delivering a powerful vocal performance that tugs at the heartstrings.
The production on the track is lush and sophisticated, a far cry from the raw rock and roll of his early days. Producer Felton Jarvis, a longtime collaborator, crafted a soundscape that blends elements of country, pop, and soul. The prominent strings and backing vocals create a sense of drama and emotional weight, perfectly complementing Elvis’s heartfelt delivery.
There Goes My Everything wasn’t a chart-topping smash hit like some of Elvis’s earlier singles. However, it resonated deeply with his fans and became a staple of his Vegas shows. The song showcased his incredible vocal range and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. It’s a testament to his versatility as an artist, his willingness to adapt to changing musical trends, and his enduring appeal as a performer.
Even today, There Goes My Everything continues to be a beloved song among Elvis fans. It’s a reminder of his incredible talent, his ever-evolving sound, and his ability to deliver a powerful ballad that leaves a lasting impression. So, sit back, close your eyes, and let Elvis’s voice wash over you as we delve into this poignant and timeless classic.
Video:
Lyrics:
“There Goes My Everything”
There goes my everythingI hear footsteps slowly walking
As they gently walk across the lonely floor
And a voice is softly saying
Darling this will be goodbye for evermore
There goes my reason for living
There goes the one of my dreams
There goes my only possession
There goes my everything
As my memory turns back the pages
I can see the happy years we’ve had before
Now the love that kept this heart beating
Has been shattered by the closing of the door