Introduction
“What Now My Love” is a poignant ballad that has traversed languages and genres since its inception. Originally composed as “Et maintenant” in 1961 by French composer Gilbert Bécaud, with lyrics by Pierre Delanoë, the song delves into themes of love and loss. Its English adaptation, titled “What Now My Love,” features lyrics by Carl Sigman.
The song quickly gained international acclaim, with early English versions recorded by artists such as Shirley Bassey and Ben E. King. Shirley Bassey’s rendition notably peaked at number five on the United Kingdom charts in 1962.
Elvis Presley’s connection to “What Now My Love” is particularly memorable. He performed the song during his historic “Aloha from Hawaii” concert on January 14, 1973. This performance was part of a live satellite broadcast that reached an estimated global audience of one billion people across 43 countries.
Presley’s emotive delivery during this concert showcased his ability to convey deep emotion, further cementing the song’s place in his extensive repertoire.
Over the years, “What Now My Love” has been interpreted by numerous artists, each bringing their unique style to the composition. Notable versions include those by Sonny & Cher, whose 1966 rendition reached number 14 on the U.S. charts, and Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass, whose instrumental take in the same year was nominated for the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
The enduring appeal of “What Now My Love” lies in its universal exploration of heartache and longing, allowing it to resonate with audiences across different cultures and eras.