Introduction:
“Something,” a romantic ballad penned by George Harrison of The Beatles, stands as one of the most celebrated love songs in music history. Originally featured on The Beatles’ 1969 album “Abbey Road,” the song showcases Harrison’s maturation as a songwriter and has been extensively covered by various artists, including Elvis Presley.
Elvis Presley, renowned for his dynamic stage presence and versatile vocal talent, incorporated “Something” into his live performances during the early 1970s. A notable rendition was recorded on August 11, 1970, during a midnight show at The International Hotel in Las Vegas. This performance was later included in the compilation album “Walk A Mile In My Shoes – The Essential 70’s Masters,” released in October 1995.
Presley’s most prominent performance of “Something” occurred during his globally televised concert, “Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite,” on January 14, 1973. This concert, broadcast live from the Honolulu International Center Arena, reached an estimated audience of over a billion viewers worldwide, marking a significant milestone in live satellite broadcasts. The rendition of “Something” from this concert was featured on the accompanying album, “Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite,” released in February 1973.
In his interpretation of “Something,” Presley infused the song with his distinctive vocal style, adding depth and emotion that resonated with audiences. His live performances were supported by his talented band, including guitarists James Burton and John Wilkinson, bassist Jerry Scheff, drummer Ronnie Tutt, pianist Glen D. Hardin, and backing vocalists such as Kathy Westmoreland and The Sweet Inspirations.
Presley’s rendition of “Something” exemplifies his ability to reinterpret contemporary songs, bridging the gap between rock and roll and other musical genres. His performances contributed to the song’s enduring popularity and showcased his respect for fellow artists, including The Beatles. Notably, Frank Sinatra, who also covered the song, once referred to “Something” as “the greatest love song of the past 50 years,” highlighting its significant impact across diverse musical landscapes.
Elvis Presley’s live performances of “Something” remain a testament to his interpretive skills and his ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt renditions of contemporary classics.