Introduction:
“I’ll Hold You in My Heart (Till I Can Hold You in My Arms)” was recorded by Elvis Presley during his legendary 1969 Memphis recording sessions at the American Sound Studio. Originally written and performed by Eddy Arnold in 1947, the song was a major hit in its original country music form. Elvis, however, infused it with his distinct blend of soulful country and rhythm & blues, showcasing his vocal versatility and artistic reinvention during this pivotal phase of his career.
The song appeared on Elvis’s critically acclaimed album From Elvis in Memphis, released in June 1969. This album marked his return to serious music-making, away from years of formulaic movie soundtracks, and it featured hits like “In the Ghetto.” Elvis’s version of “I’ll Hold You in My Heart” is notable for its heartfelt delivery and intimate arrangement, reflecting the emotional depth that characterized his Memphis sessions. His performance highlights a sense of longing and tenderness, breathing new life into the classic.
Critics and fans alike regard the track as a standout from the album, emblematic of the raw, soulful sound Elvis was exploring at the time. These sessions are often credited with revitalizing his career and cementing his place as a musical innovator capable of crossing genre boundaries. The song is also remembered for being recorded in a single take, showcasing Elvis’s remarkable instinct and connection to his material.
This track remains a testament to Elvis’s ability to reinterpret and elevate songs, merging the traditional with the contemporary to create timeless music.
Video:
Lyrics:
“I’ll Hold You In My Heart”
I said I’d hold you in my heart ’till I can hold you in my arms
Like you’ve never been held before
Well I’ll think of you each day and then I’ll dream the night away
Oh, ’till you are in my arms once more
The stars up in the sky, you know they know the reason why
I feel so blue ’cause I’m away from you
Yeah I’ll hold you in my heart ’till I can hold you in my arms
Oh darling please wait for me
You know the stars up in the sky, you know they know the reason why
I feel so blue ’cause I’m away, I’m away from you
Yeah I’ll hold you in my heart ’till I can hold you in my arms
Oh darling please wait for me
The stars up in the sky you know they know the reason why…
I feel so blue ’cause I’m away, I’m away, I’m away, I’m away from you
I said, I said I’d hold you in my heart, heart, heart ’till I can hold you in my arms
Oh darling please wait for me
The stars up in the sky, you know they know the reason why
I, I feel so blue ’cause I’m away, I’m away from you
Yeah, I’ll hold you in my heart ’till I can hold you in my arms
Oh darling please wait for me