Introduction
“Burning Love,” penned by songwriter Dennis Linde, stands as one of Elvis Presley’s most electrifying tracks. Linde, who joined Nashville’s Combine Music in 1969, crafted the song in 1971, drawing inspiration from his recent marriage and a spontaneous drum session in his home studio. He completed the demo, performing all parts himself, in just 20 minutes.
The song first appeared on Arthur Alexander’s album in late 1971 but gained widespread acclaim through Presley’s rendition. Elvis recorded “Burning Love” on March 28, 1972, at RCA’s Hollywood studios, with the single released on August 1, 1972. The track soared to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and secured the top spot on Cashbox’s pop charts, marking Presley’s 40th and final Top Ten hit in the U.S.
Despite its commercial success, Presley reportedly had reservations about the song, performing it live only a handful of times. Notably, he included it in his setlists for the “Elvis on Tour” concert film and the “Aloha from Hawaii” special. In 2015, “Burning Love” experienced a revival with a new orchestral arrangement featuring the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, released on the album “If I Can Dream.”
This collaboration introduced the classic hit to a new generation, blending Presley’s iconic vocals with rich orchestral accompaniment, further cementing “Burning Love” as a timeless piece in Elvis Presley’s musical legacy.