About the song
Few songs in Elvis Presley’s vast catalog capture the warmth, tenderness, and sheer vocal brilliance of The Wonder of You. Released in 1970, this heartfelt ballad became one of Elvis’s most beloved songs, showcasing not only his powerful voice but also his ability to convey deep emotion through music. Unlike the raw rock ‘n’ roll energy of his early career, The Wonder of You highlights a softer, more reflective side of the King, one that resonates deeply with listeners even today.
Originally written by Baker Knight and first recorded by Ray Peterson in 1959, The Wonder of You was given new life when Elvis performed and recorded it live at the International Hotel in Las Vegas. His version, infused with rich orchestration and soaring vocals, quickly became a massive hit, topping the UK Singles Chart and reaching No. 9 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. It was a song that perfectly suited Elvis’s stage presence at the time—grand, majestic, and deeply personal all at once.
Lyrically, The Wonder of You is a tribute to unconditional love, gratitude, and admiration. It speaks of a person who brings endless joy and comfort, someone who sees the best in their partner even during the toughest times. Elvis’s delivery of these words is nothing short of magical—his voice rises with passion and swells with emotion, making every line feel like a personal declaration. The rich orchestral arrangement, complete with sweeping strings and a gospel-influenced choir, adds to the song’s grand, almost cinematic quality.
What makes The Wonder of You so enduring is its universal message. It’s a song that speaks to anyone who has ever felt truly loved and cherished. Whether performed in front of thousands in Las Vegas or played softly in the quiet moments of life, Elvis’s voice carries a sincerity that never fades. Even decades later, this song remains a shining example of why Elvis Presley is, and always will be, one of the greatest musical artists of all time.
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Lyrics
When no-one else can understand me
When everything I do is wrong
You give me hope and consolation
You give me strength to carry on
And you’re always there to lend a hand
In everything I do
That’s the wonder
The wonder of you
And when you smile the world is brighter
You touch my hand and I’m a king
Your kiss to me is worth a fortune
Your love for me is everything
I guess I’ll never know the reason why
You love me as you do
That’s the wonder
The wonder of you
I guess I’ll never know the reason why
You love me as you do
That’s the wonder
The wonder of you
