Introduction
“Don’t Cry Daddy” is a poignant song originally recorded by Elvis Presley in 1969, written by Mac Davis. The track tells the story of a father grieving the loss of his wife, with his young son urging him not to cry, offering comfort and hope. Elvis’s heartfelt performance helped the song reach No. 6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 8 in the UK Singles Chart .
In 1997, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Elvis’s passing, his daughter Lisa Marie Presley recorded a virtual duet of “Don’t Cry Daddy.” The duet combined Elvis’s original vocals with new instrumentation and Lisa Marie’s voice, creating a touching tribute that resonated deeply with fans. This rendition was first presented at a tribute concert in Memphis on August 16, 1997, and later became part of the “Elvis: The Concert” series .
Lisa Marie’s decision to record this duet was inspired by the success of Natalie Cole’s virtual duet with her father, Nat King Cole. Lisa Marie aimed to honor her father’s legacy and provide fans with a meaningful connection to Elvis’s music . The duet not only showcased her vocal talents but also highlighted the enduring bond between father and daughter.
“Don’t Cry Daddy” remains a testament to the emotional depth of Elvis’s music and the lasting impact of his legacy, further enriched by Lisa Marie’s heartfelt tribute.