About the song
Let’s delve into the fiery energy of “Burning Love” by Elvis Presley, a song that reignited his presence on the charts and on stage in the early 1970s. Released in 1972, this dynamic track, penned by Dennis Linde, showcased a raw and passionate side of Elvis that resonated deeply with both longtime fans and a new generation. It’s more than just a song about intense attraction; it’s a visceral expression of being completely consumed by love, a feeling so powerful it’s akin to being on fire.
The lyrics of “Burning Love” are direct and visceral, employing the potent metaphor of fire to convey the overwhelming intensity of the narrator’s feelings. From a rising temperature to a brain that’s “flamin’,” the imagery vividly portrays the all-consuming nature of his passion. The repeated declaration of “burning love” in the chorus serves as a powerful and unforgettable hook, underscoring the depth and fervor of his emotions. Elvis Presley’s vocal performance is nothing short of electrifying. His powerful tenor, delivered with a raw urgency and a palpable sense of excitement, perfectly captures the fervent energy of the lyrics. He navigates the song’s dynamic shifts with masterful control, moving from a simmering intensity in the verses to an explosive outpouring of passion in the chorus. There’s an undeniable sense of genuine feeling in his voice that makes the listener feel the heat of his “burning love.”
The musical arrangement of “Burning Love” is a driving force behind its infectious energy. Featuring a prominent and insistent rhythm section, powerful electric guitars with a bluesy edge, and energetic backing vocals, the instrumentation creates a sense of urgency and escalating intensity that mirrors the lyrical content. The production is raw and dynamic, perfectly capturing the live-wire feel of Elvis’s performances from this era. The song’s structure builds effectively, leading to a series of powerful crescendos that amplify the feeling of being completely consumed by passion. The overall effect is one of unbridled energy and a palpable sense of excitement.
“Burning Love” marked a significant moment in Elvis’s career, demonstrating his continued relevance and his ability to deliver powerful rock and roll with a mature intensity. It became a staple of his live shows, where his energetic performances further amplified the song’s fiery passion. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its raw energy, its powerful central metaphor, and Presley’s undeniable vocal command. It’s a timeless expression of the overwhelming and all-consuming nature of intense love, delivered with a passion that continues to ignite audiences.
In essence, “Burning Love” is more than just a hit song; it’s a potent and visceral expression of being completely consumed by love, delivered with Elvis Presley’s signature power and passion. Its enduring popularity speaks to the timeless and universal experience of being utterly consumed by intense romantic feelings, a fire that burns through to the soul.
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Lyrics
Lord Almighty, I feel my temperature risin’, mmm
Higher, higher, it’s burning through to my soul
Girl, girl, girl, girl, you’re gonna set me on fire
My brain is flamin’, I don’t know which way to go, yeah
Your kisses lift me higher
Like a sweet song of a choir
You light my mornin’ sky with burning love, mmm
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh, I feel my temperature risin’, mm
Help me, I’m flamin’, I must be a 109, mmm
Burnin’, burnin’, burnin’ and nothing can cool me, yeah
I just might turn into smoke, but I feel fine
‘Cause your kisses lift me higher
Like the sweet song of a choir
And you light my mornin’ sky with burning love
It’s comin’ closer, the flames are now lickin’ my body, mm
Won’t you help me? I feel like I’m slippin’ away
It’s hard to breathe, and my chest is a-heavin’, mmm, hmm
Lord, have mercy, I’m burning a hole where I lay, yeah
Your kisses lift me higher
Like the sweet song of a choir
You light my morning sky with burning love
With burning love (a hunk, a hunk of burning love, ah)
I’m just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
I’m just a hunk, a hunk of burning love, ah (ah)
A hunk, a hunk of burning love, ah (ah)
A hunk, a hunk of burning love, ah (ah)
A hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love, ah (ah)
A hunk, a hunk of burning love, ah, ah (ah)
I’m just a hunk, a hunk of burning love
