Introduction:
Elvis Presley – “I Just Can’t Help Believin'” is a soulful ballad that has become one of the standout live performances in Presley’s career. Originally written by legendary songwriters Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, the song was first recorded by B.J. Thomas in 1970, becoming a moderate hit for him. However, it was Presley’s rendition that brought the song to even wider acclaim, cementing it as a staple in his live performances.
Elvis Presley’s version of “I Just Can’t Help Believin’” was recorded live during his highly successful residency at the International Hotel in Las Vegas in August 1970. It was featured on his live album That’s the Way It Is, released later that year. That’s the Way It Is is a unique project, blending live concert recordings with studio tracks, and is often seen as a pivotal point in Presley’s career. The album and the accompanying documentary of the same name aimed to show the world that Elvis was still a dominant musical force, capable of moving seamlessly between rock and roll, ballads, and soul.
“I Just Can’t Help Believin’” falls into the pop and soft rock genre, with elements of orchestral arrangements that highlight Presley’s matured vocal range and emotive delivery. His version showcases not only his powerful voice but also his ability to connect deeply with the material, transforming the song into a heartfelt performance that resonated with both audiences and critics alike.
The live recording from That’s the Way It Is went on to achieve considerable success in the UK, reaching No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart in 1971. Though it was not released as a single in the U.S., its success overseas reaffirmed Presley’s enduring appeal in the global music scene.
Presley’s rendition of “I Just Can’t Help Believin'” remains one of his most memorable live performances, reflecting his ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the 1970s while maintaining the raw emotional appeal that had defined his career from the beginning.
Video:
Lyrics:
“I Just Can’t Help Believin'”
(from “That’s The Way It Is” soundtrack)I just can’t help believin’
When she smiles up soft and gentle
With a trace of misty morning
And the promise of tomorrow in her eyesI just can’t help believin’
When she’s lying close beside me
And my heart beats with the rhythm of her sighs
This time the girl is gonna stay
This time the girl is gonna stay
For more than just a dayOh, I just can’t help believin’
When she slips her hand in my hand
And it feels so small and helpless
As my fingers fold around it like a gloveI just can’t help believin’
When she’s whispering her magic
And her tears are shining honey sweet with love
This time the girl is gonna stay
This time the girl is gonna stay
For more than just a day
For more than just a day