Introduction:
“Separate Ways” is a poignant song recorded by Elvis Presley on March 27, 1972, at RCA’s Studio C in Hollywood. Written by Red West, a close confidant and bodyguard of Elvis, and Richard Mainegra, the song reflects the personal turmoil Elvis was experiencing during his separation from his wife, Priscilla Presley. The lyrics delve into the emotional complexities of a relationship’s end, touching on themes of love lost and the impact on their daughter, Lisa Marie.
Released as a single on October 31, 1972, with “Always On My Mind” as the B-side, “Separate Ways” achieved significant commercial success. It reached number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, number 16 on the Hot Country Singles chart, and climbed to number 3 on the Easy Listening chart. The single was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for sales exceeding half a million copies.
In the United Kingdom, the single was released with “Always On My Mind” as the A-side, where it gained considerable popularity. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and Elvis’s emotive delivery resonated with audiences, making it a memorable piece in his discography.
“Separate Ways” was later included in a compilation album of the same name, released on December 1, 1972, by RCA Records. The album combined recent hits with earlier recordings, showcasing Elvis’s versatility across genres such as rhythm and blues, pop, country, and rock. The compilation peaked at number 46 on the Billboard chart and number 12 on the Country Album chart, eventually achieving platinum status with over 3 million copies sold worldwide.
The song’s origins are deeply rooted in Elvis’s personal life. Co-writer Richard Mainegra recounted that the inspiration stemmed from Elvis’s separation from Priscilla, aiming to capture the emotional landscape of their breakup and its effect on their daughter. This personal connection is evident in Elvis’s soulful performance, which continues to resonate with listeners.
“Separate Ways” remains a testament to Elvis Presley’s ability to convey deep emotion through music, reflecting his personal experiences and connecting with audiences on a profound level.