Introduction
“Don’t Leave Me Now” is a poignant ballad recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957. The song was written by the prolific duo Aaron Schroeder and Ben Weisman, who contributed numerous hits to Presley’s repertoire. This heartfelt plea for love and companionship showcases Presley’s emotive vocal delivery and his ability to convey deep vulnerability through music.
The song was recorded during two separate sessions at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. The first version was laid down on February 23, 1957, and was subsequently included in the soundtrack album for Presley’s second film, “Loving You.” This rendition features the musical talents of Scotty Moore and Presley on guitar, Bill Black on bass, D.J. Fontana on drums, Dudley Brooks on piano, and backing vocals by The Jordanaires.
A few months later, on May 9, 1957, Presley revisited “Don’t Leave Me Now” for his third film, “Jailhouse Rock.” This version was tailored specifically for the movie’s soundtrack and was recorded with a slightly different lineup, including Neal Matthews on bass and Mike Stoller on piano, alongside the original musicians. The film features Presley performing the song in a memorable studio scene, capturing the raw emotion of the lyrics.
“Don’t Leave Me Now” was released as part of the “Jailhouse Rock” EP on October 30, 1957. The EP included other notable tracks from the film, such as “(You’re So Square) Baby I Don’t Care” and “Young and Beautiful,” and achieved significant commercial success, topping the Billboard EP charts and selling over two million copies.
The song’s lyrics delve into themes of longing and desperation, with the narrator imploring their beloved not to abandon them. Lines like “What good is dreamin’ if I must dream all alone by myself” encapsulate the profound sense of loneliness that accompanies the fear of losing a loved one. Presley’s soulful interpretation brings these emotions to the forefront, resonating with listeners and solidifying the track as a classic in his extensive catalog.
Over the years, “Don’t Leave Me Now” has been featured on various compilation albums, including “The King of Rock’n’Roll – The Complete 50’s Masters” released in 1992. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal message and Presley’s heartfelt performance, which continues to captivate audiences decades after its initial release.