Introduction
“The Wonder of You” is a song written by Baker Knight in 1958. Initially recorded by Vince Edwards that year, this original version was never released. In 1959, Ray Peterson released his rendition, which became a Top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #25.
Elvis Presley recorded his iconic version live at the International Hotel in Las Vegas on February 19, 1970. This performance was part of his return to live stage engagements following his 1968 comeback. Released as a single on April 20, 1970, with “Mama Liked the Roses” as the B-side, it achieved significant commercial success. In the United States, the single reached #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Adult Contemporary chart. In the United Kingdom, it was particularly successful, spending six weeks at number one on the UK Singles Chart during the summer of 1970.
The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its continued association with Elvis. In 2016, a reimagined version featuring Elvis’s original vocals accompanied by new orchestral arrangements by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was released in the album “The Wonder of You.”
“The Wonder of You” remains a testament to Elvis Presley’s ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt performances, solidifying its place as a classic in his extensive catalog.