Introduction:
“I Need Somebody to Lean On” by Elvis Presley is a tender ballad from the 1964 film Viva Las Vegas. Written by the iconic songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman, the song reflects the more introspective side of Presley’s music. Recorded on July 10, 1963, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, it features a richly orchestrated arrangement, including guitar work by Billy Strange and Scotty Moore, along with contributions from session legends like Floyd Cramer on piano and Boots Randolph on saxophone.
The song stands out in Viva Las Vegas for its quiet sincerity, showing a more vulnerable side of Elvis, contrasting with the more energetic numbers in the movie. Elvis delivers a heartfelt performance, highlighting the emotional depth of Pomus and Shuman’s lyrics. While the film was known for its upbeat, entertaining songs, “I Need Somebody to Lean On” is a moment of introspective calm that resonated with many listeners.
Although the song was first released as part of the Viva Las Vegas soundtrack, it later appeared on the 1971 compilation album I Got Lucky. This track remains a favorite for its subtle emotional appeal and the unique way it fits into Elvis’s vast catalog of music, standing out as a quieter, more reflective piece from his 1960s film career
Video:
Lyrics:
“I Need Somebody To Lean On”
I need somebody to lean on
I need somebody to, to tell my troubles to
No use denying, I’m close to cryin’
But what good, tell me, what good would my crying do?I need somebody to help me
Help me forget all those worries on my mind
And when I’m lonely, if someone would only
Want to be sweet and kindI need somebody, won’t that somebody
Please, please listen to my plea?
Need that somebody, won’t that somebody
Come running to me?I need somebody to lean on
I’m tired of being unhappy and so blue
If she came I would hold her
‘Cause I need that shoulder to lean on, yes, I really do
I need somebody and maybe that somebody is you