Elvis Presley Delivered A Stunningly Heartfelt Performance Of “It’s Now or Never”
“It’s Now or Never,” recorded by Elvis Presley and released in 1960, is one of his most successful and memorable singles. The song is an adaptation of the famous Italian ballad “O Sole Mio,” with new lyrics written by Aaron Schroeder and Wally Gold. The recording session took place on April 3, 1960, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, and featured a lineup of talented musicians including Hank Garland, Scotty Moore, and Boots Randolph, with backing vocals by The Jordanaires.
The release of “It’s Now or Never” marked a significant milestone in Elvis’s career, showcasing his ability to deliver a powerful, operatic vocal performance. The song quickly rose to the top of the charts, claiming the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive weeks. It was also a massive hit internationally, reaching number one in numerous countries including the UK, where it stayed at the top for eight weeks and secured the coveted Christmas number one spot for 1960.
The song’s success was not without its challenges. Initially, there were copyright issues regarding the adaptation of “O Sole Mio,” which delayed the single’s release in the UK. Despite these hurdles, “It’s Now or Never” became one of Elvis’s best-selling singles, with over 20 million copies sold worldwide.
Elvis’s performance of “It’s Now or Never” highlighted his vocal versatility and his ability to cross musical genres. The song’s romantic and urgent lyrics, combined with its melodic structure, allowed Elvis to showcase a different side of his musical talent, one that was influenced by classical and operatic styles.
The legacy of “It’s Now or Never” continued long after its initial release. The song returned to the UK top 40 in 1977 following Elvis’s death, and it reclaimed the number one spot in 2005 as part of a reissue series of his classic hits. This enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of both the song and Elvis’s artistry.
Elvis Presley, born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, is widely regarded as one of the most influential cultural icons of the 20th century. Known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” he revolutionized the music industry with his unique blend of rock, country, blues, and gospel influences. Throughout his career, Elvis released numerous chart-topping hits and starred in a series of successful films, solidifying his status as a cultural phenomenon.
Despite his immense success, Elvis’s later years were marked by personal struggles and declining health. He passed away on August 16, 1977, but his music and legacy continue to resonate with fans around the world. “It’s Now or Never” remains one of the defining songs of his career, showcasing the depth and breadth of his musical talent.
