About The Song
"Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is a classic ballad recorded by Elvis Presley in 1960. Released as a single, the song quickly became one of Presley's signature tunes and a timeless classic in the realm of romantic ballads. The song was originally written in 1926 by Lou Handman and Roy Turk but was given a fresh interpretation by Presley, resulting in a version that became emblematic of his ability to convey deep emotions through his soulful vocals.
The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar, setting a tender and intimate atmosphere. Elvis's voice, rich and expressive, takes center stage as he begins to croon the poignant lyrics. The lyrics tell a story of love, heartache, and the haunting question of whether a past lover still feels the same. The ballad explores themes of loneliness and the lingering emotions that accompany lost love, making it a relatable and emotionally resonant piece.
One of the notable aspects of Elvis's rendition of "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" is the spoken word section in the middle of the song. In this segment, Elvis recites reflective and somewhat humorous lines, adding a distinctive touch to the performance. This spoken interlude, often referred to as the "laughing version," showcases Presley's versatility as a vocalist and his ability to inject personality into his songs.
The song's success was immediate, reaching the top of the charts in the United States and several other countries. Its enduring popularity is evident in its continued presence in various Elvis Presley compilations and retrospectives. "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" has also been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Elvis's rendition remains the most celebrated.
Beyond its commercial success, the song's emotional depth and simplicity contribute to its enduring appeal. Elvis's heartfelt delivery and the timeless themes explored in the lyrics have made "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" a classic that resonates across generations. Whether as a reflection on lost love or a testament to Presley's vocal prowess, the song remains an integral part of Elvis Presley's musical legacy and a poignant chapter in the history of romantic ballads.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Are you lonesome tonight
Do you miss me tonight?
Are you sorry we drifted apart?
Does your memory stray to a bright summer day
When I kissed you and called you sweetheart?
Do the chairs in your parlor seem empty and bare?
Do you gaze at your doorstep and picture me there?
Is your heart filled with pain, shall I come back again?
Tell me dear, are you lonesome tonight?
I wonder if you're lonesome tonight
You know someone said that the world's a stage
And each of us must play a part
Fate had me playing in love with you as my sweetheart
Act one was where we met
I loved you at first glance
You read your lines so cleverly and never missed a cue
Then came act two, you seemed to change, you acted strange
And why I've never known
Honey, you lied when you said you loved me
And I had no cause to doubt you
But I'd rather go on hearing your lies
Than to go on living without you
Now the stage is bare and I'm standing there
With emptiness all around
And if you won't come back to me
Then they can bring the curtain down
Is your heart filled with pain, shall I come back again?
Tell me dear, are you lonesome tonight?