OldiesButGoodies

Elvis Presley Rock & Roll

Elvis Presley – As Long As I Have You

As Long as I Have You - YouTube

Introduction:

Elvis Presley’s “As Long As I Have You” is not just a love song, but a significant milestone in the history of Rock and Roll. Released in 1958, the ballad helped solidify Presley’s status as a rising superstar and showcased a softer, more romantic side to his musical persona. While “As Long As I Have You” wasn’t an original composition, Presley’s charismatic performance and delivery transformed it into a rock and roll classic.

Originally a doo-wop tune written by Fred Wise and Ben Weisman, “As Long As I Have You” was first performed by The Ink Spots in 1954. Their rendition achieved moderate success, reaching number 11 on the Billboard R&B chart. However, it was Presley’s cover that truly catapulted the song into the mainstream. Produced by RCA Victor’s Steve Sholes, Presley’s version incorporated a more uptempo rock and roll beat, while still retaining the tender sentimentality of the original lyrics. This unique blend resonated with audiences, propelling “As Long As I Have You” to the top spot on the Billboard charts in 1958. It remained there for an impressive fourteen weeks, solidifying Presley’s place as a cultural icon and paving the way for a string of future hits.

“As Long As I Have You” is important not only for its commercial success, but also for the way it broadened the appeal of rock and roll. Presley’s music, often characterized by its energetic and rebellious sound, had previously faced criticism for being suggestive and even threatening. “As Long As I Have You” demonstrated that rock and roll could encompass a wider range of emotions, including tenderness and vulnerability. This helped to break down barriers and usher in a new era of popular music.

The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to its impact. “As Long As I Have You” continues to be a popular choice for cover songs by artists across genres, and it has been featured in countless films and television shows. It remains an essential part of Presley’s catalog, a reminder of his unparalleled charisma and his undeniable influence on popular music.

Video:

https://youtu.be/M0OVAi65G8o?si=-gNoWe6sazY_aUtS

Lyrics:

Let the stars fade and fallAnd I won’t care at allAs long as I have youEvery kiss brings a thrillAnd I know that it willAs long as I have you
Let’s think of the futureForget the pastYou’re not my first loveBut you’re my last
Take the love that I bringThen I’ll have everythingAs long as I have you
Let’s think of the futureForget the pastYou’re not my first loveBut you’re my last
Take the love that I bringThen I’ll have everythingAs long as I have youAs longAs long as I have you (as long as I have you)

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