This week, I’ve had Elvis Presley’s version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” #OnRepeat. I was actually listening to Pentatonix’s version and just happened to look up the Elvis version on a whim, but instantly loved it.
In case you didn’t know already, Elvis Presley is a singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, and actor from Memphis, Tennessee. He was known not only for his deep voice, but his dancing during performances and widely acknowledged sexual appeal. His music blends influences from Gospel, R&B, Country, Blues, Pop, and Rock’n’Roll music. Some of his most well-known songs are “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Love Me Tender,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Hound Dog.”
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” was originally written and recorded for the 1961 Elvis Presley film, Blue Hawaii, a romantic comedy about a guy who has to figure out what he wants to do with his life when he gets out of the military. Although Pentatonix’s version of this classic is heavy on the bass with a great, full vocal sound, Elvis Presley’s version truly showcases his unique vocal timbre and performance technique. His delivery of the lyrics is relaxed, yet deliberate and his deep vocal tone is warm and intimate. I have been a fan of Elvis for quite some time, mostly because his deep vocal timbre and range in a lot of ways matches with mine, and this song just happens to be one of my favorites by him.
Take a listen below:
I’ve also included Pentatonix’s version of this song for reference below:
What do you think? Do you like Elvis’ version or the Pentatonix version more? Leave a comment below!