Introduction
“It’s Only Love” is a song that showcases Elvis Presley’s ability to infuse emotion into his music. Originally written by Mark James and Steve Tyrell, the track was first recorded by B.J. Thomas in 1969, achieving moderate success by reaching number 45 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Elvis Presley recorded his rendition on May 20, 1971, at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville. The recording featured prominent musicians, including guitarists James Burton and Chip Young, bassist Norbert Putnam, and pianist David Briggs. Backing vocals were provided by Millie Kirkham, Temple Riser, Ginger Holladay, and The Imperials.
Released as a single on September 21, 1971, with “The Sound of Your Cry” as the B-side, “It’s Only Love” did not achieve significant commercial success in the United States, peaking at number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 19 on the Easy Listening chart.
However, the song found renewed popularity in the United Kingdom, where it was re-released in 1980 as a double A-side with “Beyond the Reef,” reaching number 3 on the UK Singles Chart.
The song’s lyrics delve into the complexities of love, expressing both admiration and the challenges of unfulfilled desires. Lines such as “I see the sunlight in her hair” and “It’s only love that I feel inside” convey a sense of longing and introspection.
While not one of Presley’s most commercially successful tracks, “It’s Only Love” remains a testament to his interpretative skills and emotional depth, reflecting the nuanced experiences of love and longing.