About the song
Elvis Presley Stuns the World with “My Way”
When Elvis Presley took the stage to perform “My Way”, he wasn’t just singing a song — he was delivering a deeply personal statement. Known as the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis had spent nearly two decades redefining music, style, and stage performance. But in “My Way”, fans saw something different: a man reflecting on his life, career, and the choices that defined him. It became one of his most moving and memorable moments, stunning audiences around the world.
Originally written by Paul Anka with English lyrics adapted from the French song “Comme d’habitude”, “My Way” had already been made famous by Frank Sinatra. Its message of living life on one’s own terms resonated deeply with audiences. Yet when Elvis recorded his version in 1971 — and performed it live in the years that followed — the song took on a new emotional weight.
Elvis’ rendition wasn’t simply a cover; it was a reflection of his own journey. By the early 1970s, he had experienced the dizzying heights of superstardom and the personal struggles that came with it. From his groundbreaking early rock and roll hits to his Hollywood film career, from his Las Vegas residencies to his grueling tour schedule, Elvis had lived a life few could imagine. “My Way” became a mirror, allowing him to express pride in his triumphs, acceptance of his regrets, and a quiet defiance in the face of public judgment.
One of the most unforgettable performances of the song came during his Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite concert in January 1973. Broadcast to over a billion people worldwide, the special was a landmark moment in music history. As Elvis sang “My Way”, dressed in his iconic white jumpsuit adorned with jewels, his voice carried both strength and vulnerability. The world listened — and many felt as if he was telling his life story through the lyrics.
Following his passing in 1977, “My Way” took on an even deeper significance. A live version recorded during his final years was released as a single and quickly climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, reaching the Top 40. It also made an impact internationally, cementing its place as one of Elvis’ defining late-career songs. For fans grieving his loss, the lyrics felt eerily prophetic, as if Elvis had left them with a final message about his life’s journey.
Today, “My Way” remains one of the most powerful and enduring entries in Elvis Presley’s vast catalogue. It is celebrated not only for its vocal brilliance but for the way it reveals the man behind the legend — someone who, despite living under the constant glare of fame, chose to walk his path with conviction. Elvis didn’t just sing “My Way”; he lived it. And in doing so, he gave the world a performance that will echo through generations, reminding us all of the courage it takes to live life unapologetically.
Video
Lyrics
And now the end is near
So i face the final curtain
My friend, i’ll say it clear
I’ll state my case of which i’m certainI’ve lived a life that’s full
I’ve traveled each and every highway
And more, much more than this
I did it my wayRegrets, i’ve had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what i had to do
And saw it through without exceptionI planned each charted course
Each careful step along the byway
Oh, and more, much more than this
I did it my wayYes, there were times, i’m sure you know
When i bit off more than i could chew
But through it all when there was doubt
I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all and i stood tall
And did it my wayI’ve loved, i’ve laughed and cried
I’ve had my fails, my share of losing
And now as tears subside
I find it all so amusing
To think i did all that
And may i say, not in a shy way
Oh, no, no not me
I did it my wayFor what is a man, what has he got
If not himself, then he has not
To say the words he truly feels
And not the words he would reveal
The record shows i took the blows
And did it my way
The record shows i took the blows
And did it my way
