Introduction:
Even for a legend like Elvis Presley, the path to musical success wasn’t always about crafting original hits. Throughout his career, Elvis embraced a wide range of musical styles, from the rockabilly of his early days to the soulful ballads that dominated his later years. One such example is his 1970 rendition of the beautiful ballad “Let It Be Me”.
Originally a French song titled “Pour Moi Toute Seule” (“For Me Alone”) written by Pierre Delanoë and Gilbert Bécaud, “Let It Be Me” quickly gained international recognition. Its English adaptation, penned by Manny Curtis, became a favorite among singers across genres. The song’s melancholic yet hopeful melody, coupled with its heartfelt lyrics that explore themes of love, commitment, and compromise, resonated deeply with audiences.
By the time Elvis Presley added his own spin to the song in 1970, “Let It Be Me” was already a well-established classic. However, Elvis’s version brought a fresh perspective to the beloved tune. Recorded during the sessions for his live album “On Stage”, “Let It Be Me” showcased Elvis’s exceptional vocal talent in a more intimate setting. Backed by the soulful harmonies of his backing groups, The Imperials and The Sweet Inspirations, Elvis delivered a powerful and nuanced performance. His signature deep baritone and smooth delivery imbued the song with a touch of vulnerability and tenderness, qualities not always prominent in his earlier, more rock-and-roll-driven work.
“Let It Be Me” wasn’t a chart-topping hit for Elvis, but it did find a dedicated audience among his fans. The song’s inclusion on the hugely successful “On Stage” album, which reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart, further solidified its place in Elvis’s vast repertoire. “Let It Be Me” also served as a testament to Elvis’s artistic growth and his willingness to explore different musical styles.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless message and Elvis’s masterful interpretation. “Let It Be Me” stands as a reminder of the King’s versatility and his ability to connect with listeners through his emotive vocals and captivating stage presence. It’s a song that transcends genre and continues to resonate with fans of Elvis Presley and romantic ballads alike.
Video:
Lyrics:
God bless the day I found youI want to stay around youAnd so I beg youLet it be meDon’t take this Heaven from oneBut if you must cling to someoneNow and foreverLet it be meEach time we meet, loveI find complete loveWithout your sweet loveTell me, what would life be?So never leave me lonelyJust tell me you love me onlyAnd that you’ll alwaysLet it be meEach time we meet loveI find complete loveOh, without your sweet loveWhat would life be?So never leave me lonelyJust tell me you love me onlyAnd that you’ll alwaysLet it be meAnd that you’ll alwaysLet it be meLet it be me