About the Song
“Are You Lonesome Tonight?” is a classic ballad recorded by Elvis Presley in 1960. The song was written by Roy Turk and Lou Handman and was originally published in 1926. However, it was Presley’s heartfelt rendition that brought it to a new generation of listeners.
Here are some details about the song:
- Release Date: “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” was released as a single by Elvis Presley on November 1, 1960.
- Chart Performance: The song was a massive success and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It became one of Elvis’s signature songs and one of his most commercially successful recordings.
- Album Inclusion: In addition to being released as a single, the song was also included on Presley’s album titled “Elvis’ Golden Records Vol. 3,” which was released in 1963.
- Musical Style: “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” is a ballad with a slow, melancholic tempo. The song features Presley’s emotive vocals accompanied by gentle instrumentation, including a prominent acoustic guitar.
- Live Performances: Elvis often performed the song live during his concerts. One notable live version is from his “Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii” concert in 1973.
- Famous Spoken Part: One distinctive feature of the song is a spoken word passage by Elvis in the middle of the song, where he reflects on love and loneliness. This part has become particularly famous.
- Cultural Impact: “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Elvis’s version remains one of the most iconic and enduring renditions.
The song’s enduring popularity and emotional resonance have cemented its place as one of Elvis Presley’s timeless classics.