110: Love Me Tender | |
Album: |
 |
Writers: |
George R. Poulton, Ken Darby |
Length: |
3:14 |
Notes: |
The third song from "The Secret Sessions"—four bonus tracks added to the special edition of Secret Symphony. This one shouldn't need much of an introduction—it's an Elvis Presley classic from 1956. It has been recorded by so many artists I think it would be quicker to mention those who haven't recorded it. But that would be silly, and in any case how remiss of me would it be to fail to bring to your attention a duet by Julie Andrews and Johnny Cash? By all means read that last sentence again, but I promise you your eyes did not deceive you. Such a nugget of musical majesty does exist in the world, which is exactly why the world is such a magical place. Now the songwriting credits on this take a bit of unpicking. The music is an adaptation of the 1861 Civil War song, "Aura Lee" by George R. Poulton. New lyrics were penned in 1956 by Ken Darby ahead of the song being used in the movie of the same name. However, credits are often shown as Elvis Presley & Vera Matson. Matson was Darby's wife so that was either a lovely, romantic gesture or some kind of tax evasion (depending on how cynical you are). As for Elvis, well he made little tweaks here and there and got 50% of the credits because that was stipulated in his recording contract. Happy days. What of Katie's version then? Flawless and beautiful, just as you would expect. And without the help of Johnny Cash. |
YouTube: |
No actual footage sadly, but a nice picture of a rose with the song lyrics on it accompanying the album recording: |
Lyrics: |
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