Elvis Presley’s rendition of “One Night” is a beloved classic, showcasing the King’s versatile vocal talent. Originally recorded with somewhat suggestive lyrics as “One Night of Sin,” Elvis later re-recorded the song with amended text, released as “One Night.” This version, focusing on a plea for a night together, became a hit, capturing the earnest romantic yearning that characterized many of Elvis’s best performances. Exploring the story behind “Elvis Presley One Night With You” offers a glimpse into his prolific recording period in the late 1950s and the personal events shaping his life.
The Lyrics of “One Night”
Words & Music by D. Bartholomew / P. King
One night with you
Is what I’m now praying for
The things that we two could plan
Would make my dreams come true
Just call my name
And I’ll be right by your side
I want your sweet helping hand
My loves too strong to hide
Always lived, very quiet life
I ain’t never did no wrong
Now I know that life without you
Has been too lonely too long
One night with you
Is what I’m now praying for
The things that we two could plan
Would make my dreams come true
Always lived, very quiet life
I ain’t never did no wrong
Now I know that life without you
Has been too lonely too long
One night with you
Is what I’m now praying for
The things that we two could plan
Would make my dreams come true
Recording and Early 1957 Events
The recording of “One Night” took place during a busy and pivotal period in Elvis Presley’s life. The session where he laid down the vocals for the version that would become famous occurred on February 23, 1957, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. This session was part of a series of prolific recordings in early 1957, contributing to his string of hits and soundtrack material.
January 1957 kicked off with Elvis celebrating his twenty-second birthday at his home in Memphis with his parents on January 8th. Just days later, on January 12th, the Memphis Draft Board held a press conference announcing that Elvis would be classified 1A, signaling his likely drafting into the armed forces within the next six to eight months. Amidst these significant life changes, Elvis also briefly visited Dixie Locke, a former girlfriend who had recently married. For fans interested in Elvis’s vocal performances, exploring other songs from this era, such as those where he might play Elvis Presley are you lonesome to night, offers further insight into his evolving style.
The recording sessions at Radio Recorders continued throughout January and into February. Key sessions included:
- January 12, 1957: Recordings like “I Believe,” “Tell Me Why,” “Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do,” and “All Shook Up.”
- January 13, 1957: Sessions yielded “Mean Woman Blues,” “Peace In The Valley,” “I Beg Of You” (Alternate Master), “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin,” and “Take My Hand Precious Lord.”
- January 19, 1957: Further recordings at Radio Recorders included “It Is No Secret (What God Can Do),” “Blueberry Hill,” “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You,” and “Is It So Strange?”.
Paramount Sound Stage was also a recording location during this time, specifically for movie-related tracks for “Loving You”:
- January 15, 1957: Recording sessions at Paramount included “(Let’s Have A) Party” (Alternate Master – Movie Version) and “Lonesome Cowboy.”
- January 16, 1957: More “Loving You” tracks like “Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do” (Alternate Master) and “Teddy Bear” were recorded.
- January 18, 1957: This date saw the recording of “One Night Of Sin” (the original version), “Blueberry Hill,” “Hot Dog,” and “Got A Lot O’ Livin’ To Do” (Finale).
- January 21, 1957: Additional Paramount recordings for the film included “(Let’s Have A) Party,” “Mean Woman Blues” (Alternate Intro Version), and “Mean Woman Blues” (Movie Version Composite).
February sessions at Radio Recorders continued before the specific “One Night” recording date. On February 14th, Elvis recorded “Loving You” (Farm Version 3) and “Loving You” (Main Version 2). The pivotal session on February 23rd, besides “One Night” (Take 10), also produced “Don’t Leave Me Now” (Take 29), “I Beg Of You” (Take 34), “True Love” (Take 20), and “I Need You So” (Take 8). The following day, February 24th, saw recordings for “Loving You” (Take 4) and “When It Rains It Really Pours” (Take 8). The original version, “One Night of Sin,” recorded in January, features a different lyrical approach.
March 1957 proved to be another monumental month. Elvis finished working on the movie “Loving You.” More significantly, the search for a new home culminated in the purchase of Graceland. On March 17th, Elvis’s parents, Vernon and Gladys Presley, viewed the property with a real estate agent and put down a deposit. Just two days later, on March 19th, Elvis himself visited Graceland for the first time. He played piano there and decided immediately to buy it. Elvis, Vernon, and Gladys signed the sales contract that same day, with a closing date set for March 26th. While Elvis was on tour, Vernon and Gladys moved into Graceland on the closing date, marking the beginning of the Presley family’s residence at the iconic mansion.
Beyond his studio recordings and personal milestones, Elvis’s live performances in the 1950s were legendary. Rare footage exists of his early concerts, such as the 1956 performance in Tupelo, Mississippi, which captured the raw energy and excitement of the young star. This footage includes performances of hits like “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Don’t Be Cruel,” and even a rare performance of “Long Tall Sally.” 
Cover art for the ‘Tupelo’s Own Elvis Presley’ DVD, featuring a live concert from 1956. Such visual and audio records provide invaluable glimpses into the phenomenon that was Elvis in his prime. For a deeper dive into his recorded work, exploring the full words to are you lonesome tonight and other classics can provide endless hours of discovery.
The array of songs recorded during this period, including ballads, rock and roll numbers, and gospel tracks, highlights Elvis’s incredible range and work ethic. Even within a busy schedule of movie making and personal events like receiving a draft notice or buying Graceland, the focus remained on creating music that would resonate with millions. Fans seeking more information on specific tracks or sessions often look for resources that can help them elvis presley are you lonesome to night.
The period of early 1957, encompassing the recording of “One Night” (both versions), alongside numerous other tracks and major life events, underscores the intense pace of Elvis Presley’s career at its height. It was a time of both creative output and significant personal transition, solidifying his status as a global icon. Whether listening to the heartfelt plea of “One Night” or delving into the extensive list of songs recorded during these months, the legacy of Elvis Presley remains as vibrant as ever.
Conclusion
“One Night,” particularly the popular version titled “Elvis Presley One Night With You,” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s enduring appeal and his ability to deliver powerful performances across different lyrical interpretations. Recorded during a period of intense activity and personal change in early 1957, the song is intertwined with significant events ranging from prolific recording sessions to the purchase of Graceland and the anticipation of military service. The comprehensive nature of his output during these months, from movie soundtracks to singles and gospel tracks, paints a picture of an artist at the peak of his powers, navigating fame while continuously creating music that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
