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Introduction:
The Heartbreak Ballad: Elvis Presley’s “What Now My Love”
Elvis Presley’s “What Now My Love” might be a familiar tune, but its journey to becoming a King of Rock and Roll classic is a fascinating one. Buckle up for a story of international inspiration, unexpected covers, and a showstopping performance that cemented the song’s place in Elvis’s legacy.
Originally titled “Et maintenant” (“And Now” in French), the song originated from the mind of legendary French singer-songwriter Gilbert Bécaud. Released in 1961, Bécaud’s version captured the raw emotions of a love lost, filled with longing and unanswered questions.
Across the Atlantic, American lyricist Carl Sigman saw potential in the song’s melancholic beauty. He penned a new English version titled “What Now My Love,” retaining the essence of heartbreak while adapting it for a wider audience. This is the version that would eventually reach Elvis.
Several artists, including Brenda Lee and Billy Fury, recorded their own renditions of “What Now My Love” in the early 1960s. But it was Presley’s take that truly catapulted the song to fame.
In 1973, Elvis was filming his landmark concert special “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite.” Looking to expand his repertoire beyond rock and roll, he included “What Now My Love” in the setlist. The bluesy ballad showcased a different side of Elvis, his powerful vocals conveying the vulnerability and pain of a love gone wrong.
The performance was a revelation. Clad in a white jumpsuit and backed by a full orchestra, Elvis delivered a mesmerizing rendition of “What Now My Love.” The raw emotion and unexpected depth resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying the song’s place as a beloved Elvis classic.
“What Now My Love” transcended its origins as a French ballad. Through Elvis’s interpretation, it became a universal anthem of heartbreak, a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the King.