Elvis Presley and the Beatles' 'Something': A Deep Dive
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock 'n' Roll, was known for his admiration of contemporary artists of his time. One such example is the iconic Beatles song, 'Something.'
Put to the Test at Concerts
Elvis liked a lot of the contemporary artists of his era. He performed several songs by the Beatles in his concert set lists, including 'Hey Jude,' 'Steamroller Blues,' and 'Proud Mary.' It's no surprise that 'Something' made it to his repertoire, as evidenced by his inclusion of it in a special concert performance.
'Something' on Stage
Elvis performed 'Something' in concert, a nod to his appreciation for the Beatles' music. This performance was particularly impressive at his Aloha From Hawaii concert in 1973. Interestingly, Elvis had previously mentioned his fondness for the Beatles' music during his 1968 Comeback Special television show. However, it's worth noting that by 1968, he had also expressed disapproval of the Beatles due to their drug use, a stark contrast to his earlier statements about their music.
The Song’s Appeal
Elvis may have been envious or frustrated with how the Beatles rose to the top of the music world, but he undoubtedly recognized a great song when he heard one. As a passionate singer, his love for good music was fundamental to his career. 'Something,' written by George Harrison, was an ode to classic love and adored by many, including Elvis. The song replaced the Beatles' previous single, 'Hey Jude,' as the A side in 1969, climbing to the top of the US Hot 100 chart.
Legacy and Influence
'Something' is widely regarded as one of the best Beatles songs, covering it has become a staple in the repertoire of many artists. Frank Sinatra, a legendary singer, even shared his love for the song. During his live performance, he commented, 'It’s my favorite love song by Lennon/McCartney.' The song’s enduring appeal lies in its melodies and lyrics, resonating with those who appreciate timeless love ballads.
The story of Elvis Presley and 'Something' provides a fascinating glimpse into the music industry of the late 20th century and the impact of artists like the Beatles. Even as they replaced him at the pinnacle of the music world, their continued success and impact on Elvis are undeniable.