About the song
“Let It Be Me.” This classic ballad, originally a French song (“Je t’appartiens”) that achieved international fame through the Everly Brothers’ 1960 version, found a truly moving and iconic interpretation in Elvis Presley’s hands. His live performances of the song, particularly from his early 1970s engagements in Las Vegas, became a beloved staple, showcasing his incredible vocal range and his profound ability to connect with a deeply emotional lyric. While not a chart-topping single for him, it remains a testament to his versatility and his enduring power as an interpreter of ballads.
The lyrics of “Let It Be Me,” with English words by Manny Curtis, articulate a powerful and almost desperate desire for a loved one to choose them, to always return to them, and to remain by their side through all of life’s changes. The narrator is offering complete devotion and asking for the same unwavering commitment in return, recognizing the fragility of life and the preciousness of true connection. Phrases like “I bless the day I found you / I want to stay around you / And so I beg you / Let it be me” and “Each time we meet, love / I find complete love / Without your sweet love / What would life be?” perfectly capture this blend of earnest longing and profound appreciation. The song speaks to the universal human experience of wanting to be chosen, to be the one and only, and to build a life founded on mutual, unwavering love. It’s about the profound security found in a committed relationship and the quiet terror of imagining a future without that cherished presence. It resonates deeply with anyone who has ever yearned for the ultimate reassurance that they are truly loved and needed.
Elvis Presley’s vocal performance on “Let It Be Me” is simply sublime. By the early 1970s, his voice had matured into an instrument of incredible power, richness, and emotional depth, perfectly suited for such a grand and heartfelt declaration. He delivers the lyrics not just with strength, but with a palpable sense of genuine tenderness, yearning, and a profound vulnerability. He doesn’t just sing the words; he embodies the devoted lover, making the listener feel every nuance of his plea and the depth of his affection. There’s a remarkable sincerity in his phrasing, a soaring conviction in his voice that is both captivating and deeply moving. He builds the song to a dramatic, almost pleading crescendo, his voice ringing out with an incredible passion that sweeps the listener along. Elvis’s brilliance lies in his unparalleled ability to take a beautiful melody and infuse it with such raw, authentic emotion and charisma, connecting with audiences on a visceral, empathetic level. It’s a masterclass in vocal power and heartfelt interpretation.
The musical arrangement of “Let It Be Me” in Elvis Presley’s live performances was characteristically grand and orchestral, perfectly fitting the song’s epic scope and romantic themes. It typically features sweeping strings that create a lush, romantic backdrop, powerful brass sections that add majestic flourishes, and a dynamic rhythm section that provides a steady yet elegant pulse. The instrumentation is designed to create a sense of majesty and emotional intensity, perfectly complementing the song’s powerful narrative. The live production captured the raw energy of his stage presence, allowing his commanding vocals to soar effortlessly above the rich musical tapestry, ensuring that every element contributed to the song’s overwhelming emotional impact. It’s an arrangement that truly embodies the overwhelming feeling of love and commitment it describes.
“Let It Be Me” as delivered by Elvis Presley resonated profoundly with audiences because its themes of enduring love, unwavering commitment, and the desire to be chosen are universally understood and deeply felt. It became one of Elvis Presley’s most iconic and beloved live performances, a true signature piece that continues to showcase his unparalleled vocal talent and his ability to move hearts with timeless ballads. It remains a timeless classic, a powerful and exhilarating reminder to always choose love, and simply, “Let It Be Me.”
Video
Lyrics
God bless the day I found you
I want to stay around you
And so I beg you
Let it be me
Don’t take this heaven from one
If you must cling to someone
Now and forever
Let it be me
Each time we meet love (ooh)
I find complete love (ooh)
Without your sweet love, tell me
What would life be
So never leave me lonely
Just tell me you’ll love me only
And that you’ll always
Let it be me
Ooh
Each time we meet love (ooh)
I find complete love (ooh)
Without your sweet love
What would life be
So never leave me lonely
Just tell me you’ll love me only
And that you’ll always
Let it be me
And that you’ll always
Let it be me
So never leave me lonely (ooh)
Just tell me you’ll love me only
That you’ll always
Let it be me
