Introduction:
“What Now My Love” is a song that has traversed linguistic and cultural boundaries, evolving from its French origins to become a global standard covered by numerous artists, including the legendary Elvis Presley. Presley’s rendition, performed during his iconic “Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite” concert in 1973, stands as a testament to the song’s enduring appeal and his unparalleled ability to reinterpret existing works.
Origins and Composition
The song’s journey began in 1961 when French composer Gilbert Bécaud and lyricist Pierre Delanoë crafted “Et maintenant,” which translates to “And Now.” The composition is characterized by its poignant melody and the recurring rhythmic pattern reminiscent of the Boléro, an 18th-century traditional Spanish dance, perhaps best known through Maurice Ravel’s 1928 composition. “Et maintenant” quickly gained popularity in France, with Bécaud’s original version topping the French charts in 1961.
Recognizing the song’s potential beyond French-speaking audiences, American lyricist Carl Sigman penned English lyrics, transforming “Et maintenant” into “What Now My Love.” This adaptation retained the emotional depth of the original while making it accessible to a broader audience.
Early Successes and Notable Covers
The English version saw early success with renditions by artists such as Jane Morgan, Shirley Bassey, and Ben E. King. Shirley Bassey’s interpretation, released in 1962, was particularly noteworthy, peaking at number five on the UK Singles Chart and solidifying the song’s status in the English-speaking world.
Throughout the 1960s and beyond, “What Now My Love” attracted a diverse array of artists across various genres. Sonny & Cher’s 1966 version achieved commercial success, reaching number 14 on the US charts and number 13 in the UK. That same year, Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass released an instrumental rendition, which not only became a US Top 40 hit but also earned a nomination for the 1967 Grammy Award for Record of the Year. These interpretations, among others, underscore the song’s versatility and widespread appeal.
Elvis Presley’s Interpretation
Elvis Presley’s association with “What Now My Love” culminated in a memorable performance during his “Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite” concert on January 14, 1973. This groundbreaking event was the first live satellite broadcast of a solo entertainer, reaching an estimated audience of over one billion people across 43 countries. Presley’s rendition of the song was marked by his powerful vocals and emotive delivery, capturing the song’s themes of despair and longing.
While this performance is one of the most celebrated, it’s important to note that “What Now My Love” was not included on the original 1973 “Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite” album release. However, it has since been featured in various reissues and compilations, allowing fans to appreciate Presley’s interpretation within the context of this historic concert.
Genre and Musical Style
The song’s composition and subsequent interpretations primarily fall within the traditional pop genre. Its structure and orchestration lend themselves to dramatic and heartfelt performances, which is evident in the diverse range of artists who have covered it. The recurring Boléro-inspired rhythm provides a hypnotic backdrop, allowing vocalists to explore deep emotional expressions.
Legacy and Achievements
Over the decades, “What Now My Love” has been embraced by artists spanning various genres and generations, from Judy Garland’s heartfelt rendition on “The Ed Sullivan Show” to Frank Sinatra’s collaboration with Aretha Franklin in 1993. The song’s adaptability speaks to its strong melodic foundation and universal themes of love and loss.
Elvis Presley’s performance, in particular, contributed significantly to the song’s enduring legacy. The “Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite” concert not only showcased Presley’s versatility as a performer but also demonstrated the song’s capacity to resonate with audiences worldwide. This event remains a landmark in television history and solidified Presley’s status as a global icon.
In conclusion, “What Now My Love” exemplifies the transformative power of music, transcending its original context to become a timeless classic. Through the interpretations of artists like Elvis Presley, the song continues to evoke profound emotions, ensuring its place in the annals of musical history.