Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “What Now My Love” stands as a poignant highlight from his iconic 1973 live album, Aloha from Hawaii. This televised concert event, a groundbreaking achievement in its own right, showcased the King of Rock and Roll at the peak of his career. While the show was a spectacular display of energy and showmanship, moments like “What Now My Love” offered a different side of Elvis: the vulnerable and soulful artist.
The song, originally a French ballad composed by Gilbert Bécaud, was given an English adaptation by Herb and Janet Scott. In Presley’s hands, it transformed into a heart-wrenching masterpiece. The genre-bending nature of Elvis’ career often saw him experiment with various musical styles, and this performance is a testament to his versatility. While primarily rooted in rock and roll, “What Now My Love” showcases Presley’s ability to deliver a powerful ballad with emotional depth.
The live setting of the Aloha from Hawaii concert added an extra layer of authenticity to the performance. Backed by his renowned TCB Band, Elvis delivered a vocal performance that was both intimate and commanding. The arrangement, while simple, allowed Presley’s voice to take center stage, emphasizing the song’s melancholic themes of loss and heartbreak.
While the concert as a whole shattered viewership records and solidified Elvis Presley’s status as a global icon, individual performances like “What Now My Love” continue to resonate with audiences decades later. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Presley’s timeless appeal and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
Video:
Lyrics:
“What Now My Love”
What now my love
Now that you left me
How can I live through another day
Watching my dreams turn into ashes
And all my hopes into bits of clay
Once I could see, once I could feel
Now I’m a numb
I’ve become unrealI walk the night, oh, without a goal
Stripped of my heart, my soul
What now my love
Now that it’s over
I feel the world closing in on me
Here comes the stars
Tumbling around me
And there’s the sky where the sea should beWhat now my love
Now that you’re gone
I’d be a fool to go on and on
No one would care, no one would cry
If I should live or dieWhat now my love
Now there is nothing
Only my last goodbye
Only my last goodbye