About the Song

What Now My Love: A Soul-Stirring Ballad by Elvis Presley

In the realm of music, there are songs that entertain, songs that educate, and songs that touch the very core of our being. Elvis Presley’s “What Now My Love” falls into the latter category, a timeless ballad that has resonated with listeners for generations. Released in 1961, this poignant masterpiece encapsulates the depths of heartbreak and despair with an emotional intensity that is both raw and relatable.

Presley’s voice, a powerful instrument that could convey a myriad of emotions, takes center stage in this ballad. From the opening lines, where he laments, “What now, my love, now that you’ve gone?”, his voice is imbued with a profound sadness that mirrors the protagonist’s shattered heart. The lyrics, penned by Carl Sigman, paint vivid imagery of a world turned upside down, devoid of love and hope. As Presley sings, “I walk the night, oh, without a goal / Stripped of my heart, my soul,” the listener is transported into a world of emotional desolation.

The song’s arrangement, a masterful blend of country and pop influences, perfectly complements Presley’s impassioned vocals. The gentle strumming of the guitar provides a melancholic backdrop, while the swelling strings add a touch of grandeur to the emotional outpouring. The overall effect is one of profound vulnerability, allowing the listener to connect with the singer’s pain on a deeply personal level.

“What Now My Love” is more than just a song; it’s an emotional journey that takes the listener through the depths of heartbreak and despair. Presley’s heartfelt performance and the poignant lyrics create an unforgettable listening experience that has cemented the song’s place as a classic. It is a testament to the power of music to transcend time and touch the human spirit, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.

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Lyric

What now, my love, now that you left me?How can I live through another dayWatching my dreams turn into ashesAnd all my hopes into bits of clay?Once I could see, once I could feelNow I’m numb, I’ve become unreal
I walk the night, oh, without a goalStripped of my heart, my soulWhat now, my love, now that it’s over?I feel the world closing in on meHere comes the stars tumbling around meAnd there’s the sky where the sea should be
What now, my love, now that you’re gone?I’d be a fool to go on and onNo one would care, no one would cryIf I should live or die
What now, my love, now there is nothing?Only my last goodbyeOnly my last goodbye