About The Song
There are songs that weave their way into the fabric of our lives, melodies that become the soundtrack to our memories, and Elvis Presley’s “What Now, My Love?” is one such timeless gem. Released in 1973, this ballad has transcended generations, resonating with anyone who has ever known the bittersweet sting of love lost.
For those of us who remember Elvis’s heyday, the song instantly conjures up images of the King himself, his velvet Elvis in his white jumpsuit, swaying under the Hawaiian sun. “What Now, My Love?” was a centerpiece of his iconic “Aloha From Hawaii” concert, and his impassioned delivery of the lyrics still sends chills down the spine. But even without the visual, the song’s raw emotion cuts straight through to the heart.
Elvis sings of a love that has withered, leaving him lost and adrift. “Now that you left me,” he croons, “how can I live through another day?” The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world turned upside down, where even the stars seem to tumble and the sky appears to be where the sea should be. This is not just heartbreak; it’s a complete emotional annihilation.
But “What Now, My Love?” is more than just a lament. It’s a question, a plea for guidance in the face of despair. “What now, my love?” Elvis asks, his voice echoing the uncertainty and vulnerability that we all feel when faced with loss. This simple question resonates because it speaks to a universal truth – that we are all searching for answers in the face of life’s challenges, especially those that leave us heartbroken.
The song’s power lies not only in its emotional rawness but also in its musicality. The hauntingly beautiful melody, written by Georges Moustaki and adapted by Camille and Mike Leander, perfectly captures the melancholic mood. The gentle orchestration provides a backdrop of empathy, while the soaring chorus offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.
“What Now, My Love?” is not just an Elvis song; it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever loved and lost. It’s a reminder that heartbreak is a universal experience, and that even the King of Rock and Roll wasn’t immune to its pain. But the song also offers a glimmer of hope, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, there is always the possibility of finding our way back to the light. So, the next time you hear that familiar melody, take a moment to remember Elvis, and to reflect on the love and loss that we all share. And let “What Now, My Love?” be a reminder that even in the face of heartbreak, we can still find the strength to go on.