About the song
“You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” as performed by Elvis Presley takes a song originally crafted by the Righteous Brothers and infuses it with his own distinctive style and emotional depth. While the Righteous Brothers’ 1964 version is undoubtedly a classic, Presley’s interpretation, particularly his live performances during his Las Vegas years, offers a unique and powerful perspective on this timeless ballad.
The song itself is a study in emotional desolation. It delves into the painful realization that the spark in a relationship has faded, leaving behind a chilling emptiness. The lyrics, penned by Barry Mann, Phil Spector, and Cynthia Weil, are direct and unflinching, capturing the raw anguish of a love that has grown cold.
Elvis Presley, in his performances of this song, particularly those captured in live recordings from the early 1970s, brings a level of dramatic intensity that is both captivating and heart-wrenching. His vocal delivery, marked by its powerful range and emotive phrasing, transforms the song into a theatrical experience. He doesn’t just sing the lyrics; he embodies them, conveying the desperation and sorrow of the narrator with a palpable sense of urgency.
The arrangements used in Elvis’s live performances often added to the dramatic effect. The use of backing vocals, and the build-up of the songs climax, made for a very powerful rendition of the song.
“You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” in Elvis’s hands, becomes more than just a song; it’s a raw and honest portrayal of emotional pain. It’s a testament to his ability to connect with his audience on a deep emotional level, delivering a performance that is both powerful and poignant. It serves as a reminder of the fragility of love, and the devastating impact of its loss.
Video
Lyrics
“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'”
You never close your eyes
Anymore when I kiss your lips
There’s no tenderness
Like before in you fingertips
You’re trying hard not to show it,
But baby, baby I know itYou’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’, oh that lovin’ feelin’
You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’, now it’s gone, gone, goneThere’s no tenderness in your eyes
When I reach out for you
Girl, you’re starting to criticize
Every little thing I do
It makes me just feel like crying
‘Cause baby, something beautiful’s dyingYou’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’, oh that lovin’ feelin’
You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’, now it’s gone, gone, goneBaby, baby, I get down on my knees for you
If you would only love me like you used to do
We had a love, love, love, love affair every day
Oh don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t take it away
Listen to me, talkin’ to youBring back that lovin’ feelin, oh, that lovin’ feelin’
Bring back that lovin’ feelin, now it’s gone, gone, gone
And I can’t go on
