Truly A Masterpiece, His Voice Back Then Was An Extraordinary Instrument

“Love Me” by Elvis Presley, written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, was recorded on September 1, 1956, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. The song features contributions from notable musicians, including Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, D.J. Fontana on drums, and The Jordanaires on backing vocals. It showcases a heartfelt plea for love and loyalty, encapsulating the emotional depth that Elvis could bring to his performances.

Elvis first performed “Love Me” on national television on October 28, 1956, during The Ed Sullivan Show. This performance played a crucial role in the song’s popularity, despite it never being released as a single to avoid confusion with his hit “Love Me Tender”. The song became a staple in his live performances, including notable renditions in his 1968 NBC comeback special and during his final tour in 1977.

In terms of musical style, “Love Me” is characterized by its blend of rhythm and blues with the emerging rock and roll sound, a testament to Leiber and Stoller’s songwriting prowess and Elvis’s versatility as an artist. The lyrics convey a deep sense of vulnerability and longing, with lines like “Treat me like a fool, treat me mean and cruel, but love me,” emphasizing the desperation and intensity of the emotions involved.

Elvis’s interpretation of “Love Me” is noted for its soulful delivery and the way it allowed him to connect with his audience on an emotional level. This connection was evident in his live performances, such as the 1973 “Aloha from Hawaii” concert, where his rendition of “Love Me” captivated viewers worldwide.

Elvis Aaron Presley, born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, and later moving to Memphis, Tennessee, became a pivotal figure in the history of music. His career began in 1954 when he started recording at Sun Records with producer Sam Phillips. Elvis’s unique ability to blend different musical genres, including gospel, country, and rhythm and blues, helped him achieve widespread acclaim and earned him the title “The King of Rock and Roll”.

Throughout his career, Elvis released numerous hits and starred in several films, solidifying his status as a cultural icon. His impact on music and popular culture remains significant, with a legacy that continues to influence artists and entertain fans around the world. “Love Me” is just one example of the timeless quality of his music, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion and connect with audiences across generations.