About the Song
Elvis Presley’s ballad “Love Me Tender” left an indelible mark on music history, so much so that the movie it accompanied underwent a title transformation to align with the song’s immense popularity. Launched in November 1956, just two months after Presley’s heartfelt rendition on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” the film originally titled “The Reno Brothers” swiftly adopted the name “Love Me Tender.”
Remarkably, the song hadn’t even hit the airwaves when, on September 29, 1956, RCA Victor announced an astonishing 856,000 pre-sold orders, setting the stage for unprecedented success. An unparalleled milestone was achieved when the record secured gold status, crossing the one-million-copy mark before its official release.
In the film, set against the backdrop of the post-Civil War era, Presley initially held a modest role—his inaugural venture into the world of cinema. However, propelled by his rising stardom, his character’s presence expanded, marking a unique entry in his filmography. “Love Me Tender” holds the distinction of being the sole among Presley’s 31 movies where he did not claim top billing and the only cinematic endeavor where he portrayed a historical figure.
The roots of “Love Me Tender” delve into the Civil War era, with its melody adapted from George Poulton’s popular song “Aura Lea.” Interestingly, the movie’s musical director, Kim Darby, drew inspiration from this Civil War classic, crafting new lyrics for Presley’s rendition. While Darby’s wife contributed to the creation of these lyrics, the published song only credits her, alongside Presley. Notably, Presley recorded the song on the movie set, foregoing a traditional studio recording.
Released in October 1956, the single swiftly ascended to the top spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart in early November, displacing another Presley hit, where it proudly lingered for an impressive five weeks. “Love Me Tender” etched its place as one of Presley’s signature songs, a timeless melody that continues to resonate as a testament to the enduring charm and impact of the King of Rock and Roll.
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Lyric
Love me tender, love me sweet
Never let me go
You have made my life complete
And I love you so
Love me tender, love me true
All my dreams fulfill
For, my darling I love you
And I always will
Love me tender, love me dear
Tell me you are mine
I’ll be yours through all the years
‘Till the end of time
Love me tender, love me true
All my dreams fulfill
For, my darling I love you
And I always will
Love me tender, love me true
All my dreams fulfill
For, my darling I love you
And I always will
Always will