Who's behind the notes? Discover Elvis Presley: The Definitive Biography
"Love Me Tender" is one of Elvis Presley's most iconic songs, and here are some interesting facts about Elvis and the song:
Debut Movie: "Love Me Tender" was also the title of Elvis Presley's debut film, released in 1956. Elvis played the role of Clint Reno, and the song was featured in the movie. It marked the beginning of his successful career in both music and film.
Record-Breaking Sales: "Love Me Tender" sold over a million copies before it was even released due to pre-orders, making it one of the fastest-selling singles in music history at that time.
Co-Writers: The songwriting credit for "Love Me Tender" is officially given to Elvis Presley and Vera Matson. However, it is widely believed that the melody was based on the American Civil War song "Aura Lee," and Elvis added new lyrics to create the romantic ballad.
Title Change: Initially, the song was written with the title "Aura Lee," but the lyrics were changed to fit the theme of the movie, and it was renamed "Love Me Tender."
Elvis's Film Career: "Love Me Tender" marked the beginning of Elvis Presley's acting career. He went on to star in a total of 31 films throughout his career.
Chart Success: The song "Love Me Tender" became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard charts and stayed there for five weeks, solidifying Elvis Presley's status as a chart-topping artist.
Elvis's Guitar: In the movie "Love Me Tender," Elvis can be seen playing the guitar. This became a signature move for him in both his films and live performances, contributing to his image as a charismatic performer.
Wedding Song: "Love Me Tender" has been a popular choice for weddings over the years due to its romantic lyrics and Elvis's timeless appeal. Many couples have used it as their first dance song.
Elvis's Impact: Elvis Presley's rendition of "Love Me Tender" is considered one of his most iconic performances and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. His influence on popular music and culture remains significant to this day.
Elvis's Legacy: Elvis Presley, often referred to as the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide. His music, including "Love Me Tender," remains a cherished part of music history.
"Love Me Tender" is a classic song that has left a lasting impact on the world of music and entertainment, and it remains an enduring symbol of Elvis Presley's talent and charisma.