Introduction
“Love Me Tender” is a timeless ballad by Elvis Presley, released on September 14, 1956, as the title track for both his debut film and the accompanying single. The song’s melody is adapted from the 1861 Civil War-era tune “Aura Lea,” composed by George R. Poulton, with lyrics by W.W. Fosdick. For the film, music director Ken Darby crafted new lyrics, which were officially credited to Darby’s wife, Vera Matson, and Elvis Presley. This arrangement was influenced by Presley’s publishing deal, which required songwriters to share credit to have their songs recorded by him.
Elvis recorded “Love Me Tender” on August 24, 1956, at 20th Century Fox Studios in Hollywood, without his regular band. The recording featured musicians such as Vito Mumolo on guitar and Red Robinson on background vocals. Despite the absence of his usual ensemble, Elvis’s performance was captivating, and the second take was selected for release.
Upon release, “Love Me Tender” achieved remarkable success, debuting at number two on the Billboard pop singles chart and reaching number one, where it remained for five weeks. It also topped the country charts and reached number three on the R&B charts. The single’s popularity was so immense that RCA Victor received over a million advance orders, making it the first record in history to be certified gold before its official release.
The song’s success extended beyond the charts. It was featured in the film “Love Me Tender,” which premiered on November 15, 1956. Originally titled “The Reno Brothers,” the film’s name was changed to align with the song’s popularity. In the movie, Elvis portrayed Clint Reno, a Confederate soldier’s brother caught in a post-Civil War love triangle.
“Love Me Tender” remains one of Elvis’s most enduring songs, showcasing his ability to transform a classic melody into a heartfelt expression of love and longing. Its success marked a significant milestone in his career and solidified his status as a cultural icon.