The song “And I Love You So,” originally written and performed by Don McLean, holds a special place in music history, but its connection to Elvis Presley solidified its status as a beloved ballad for many fans. For those searching for information about this touching track by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, whether looking for lyrics, recording details, or context around I Love You So Elvis, this exploration delves into its place within Elvis’s prolific career, particularly during an eventful period in early 1975.
Elvis Presley recorded his version of “And I Love You So” on March 10, 1975. This session was part of the recordings that would make up his acclaimed album titled “Today.” The album was released later that year and showcased a range of musical styles, with “And I Love You So” standing out as a powerful and emotional performance.
The lyrics of “And I Love You So” resonate with themes of loneliness overcome by the transformative power of love:
And I love you so, The people ask me how, How I’ve lived till now I tell them I don’t know
I guess they understand How lonely life has been But life began again The day you took my hand
And yes I know how lonely life can be Shadows follow me The night won’t set me free But I don’t let the evening get me down Now that you’re around me
And you love me too Your thoughts are just for me You set my spirit free I’m happy that you do
The book of life is brief Once the page is read All but love is dead This is my believe
These poignant words were captured by Elvis during a fascinating phase of his life, filled with both professional commitments and personal challenges.
The “Today” Album Sessions in Hollywood
The recording sessions for the “Today” album took place at RCA’s Studio C on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, California. The sessions began on March 10, 1975, when Elvis arrived, accompanied by Sheila Ryan and his daughter, Lisa Marie.
Several tracks were laid down during these productive days in the studio:
March 10, 1975
March 11, 1975
- Green Green Grass Of Home
- I Can Help
- And I Love You So
- Susan When She Tried
March 12, 1975
- T-R-O-U-B-L-E
- Tiger Man (Jam)
- Woman Without Love
- Shake A Hand
- Bringing It Back
March 13, 1975
These sessions resulted in a diverse collection of songs, highlighting Elvis’s continued versatility as a performer in the mid-1970s. While focusing on the enduring appeal of ballads like “And I Love You So,” fans also appreciate other emotional tracks from his catalog, perhaps exploring an elvis presley youtube playlist love songs to find similar heartfelt performances.
Early 1975: Context Around the Recordings
The recording of “And I Love You So” occurred during a period of significant events for Elvis Presley in early 1975. Just prior to heading to Hollywood for the studio sessions, Elvis had faced various personal and logistical matters.
In January 1975, Elvis made a substantial $75,000 deposit on an impounded Boeing 707 jet. The aircraft had previously belonged to fugitive financier Robert Vesco. However, the deal ultimately fell through due to complicated issues, including wrangling with the IRS and concerns that Vesco might attempt to reclaim the plane if it landed in certain countries. Instead, in April, Elvis purchased a Convair 880 Jet from Delta Airlines for $250,000, investing over $600,000 in total for refurbishing. He famously renamed this jet the “Lisa Marie.”
Around the same time in late January 1975, Elvis was admitted to Baptist Memorial Hospital due to various physical problems. He remained in the hospital until February 14. While no surgery was required, this hospital stay reportedly helped him reduce his reliance on addictive pills. The scheduled shows from January and February were subsequently postponed and moved to the latter half of March, following his recording sessions.
During this period, Elvis’s family also faced health issues. On February 5, Vernon Presley, Elvis’s father, suffered a heart attack and was admitted to the same hospital, recuperating in a room next to Elvis’s. Elvis was discharged on February 14, returning to Graceland to continue his recovery before traveling to California for the recording sessions that began on March 3. These events paint a picture of the personal backdrop against which the emotional intensity of songs like “And I Love You So” and classics such as stuck on you by elvis presley were recorded or became significant parts of his repertoire.
Tupelo’s Own Elvis Presley DVD
For fans interested in experiencing early live performances of Elvis, the “Tupelo’s Own Elvis Presley DVD” offers a unique glimpse into his formative years. This DVD features recently discovered, unreleased film of Elvis performing six songs live in Tupelo, Mississippi, in 1956. Notably, it includes footage with sound, providing a rare opportunity to hear his 1950s concerts. Songs featured include “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Don’t Be Cruel,” as well as the elusive “Long Tall Sally,” seen here for the first time with sound.
The DVD also includes bonus audio content and footage of a parade, adding further context to the setting of these early performances. Interviews with Elvis’s parents are also featured, offering personal insights. The afternoon show footage has been particularly highlighted as wonderful and electrifying, capturing Elvis in his prime performing for a large audience. The DVD is highly recommended for any serious Elvis fan. For those interested in his earlier, raw sound, this contrasts with the polished ballads of the 1970s, showing the evolution of his career from performances like those in Tupelo to hits such as play are you lonesome tonight by elvis presley.
Tupelos Own Elvis Presley DVD cover showing vintage 1950s concert footage
While “And I Love You So” was recorded much later in his career, its inclusion on the “Today” album during a personally challenging year for Elvis adds layers to its emotional depth. The 1975 recording sessions, marked by his recent health issues and significant life changes like purchasing the “Lisa Marie” jet, produced several memorable tracks. Understanding the context of this period helps appreciate the music created, including this enduring rendition of Don McLean’s beautiful song. Exploring other tracks from his vast library, like elvis presley need your love, provides further insight into his musical legacy.
In conclusion, Elvis Presley’s recording of “And I Love You So” in March 1975 for the “Today” album is more than just a song; it’s a snapshot from a complex year in the life of the King. Surrounded by personal health issues and major life decisions, Elvis delivered a poignant performance of this classic ballad, solidifying its place within his cherished repertoire.
