Introduction:
“Mary in the Morning” is a love ballad written by Johnny Cymbal and Michael Rashkow, first popularized in 1967 by Al Martino, whose version topped the Easy Listening charts and charted on the Billboard Hot 100. The song became well-regarded for its gentle portrayal of romantic devotion, as the lyrics describe a man’s admiration and love for his partner in the quiet beauty of the morning light.
Elvis Presley recorded his version of “Mary in the Morning” in 1970 during sessions for his That’s the Way It Is documentary soundtrack. Though Presley never performed the song live, his studio recording remains a beloved piece among fans, showcasing his powerful and emotive vocal style. His interpretation, supported by a delicate orchestration, breathes new life into the song, lending it a more soulful, introspective quality that complements the lyrics’ themes of enduring love and admiration.
While Martino’s recording was the most commercially successful, Presley’s rendition added to the song’s lasting appeal, introducing it to a new audience and solidifying its place as a classic. For Presley, “Mary in the Morning” represented his talent for transforming established works into fresh, emotionally resonant performances that speak to timeless aspects of love and beauty.