About the song
Elvis Presley – Unchained Melody is an iconic and emotional performance by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley. While the original version of "Unchained Melody" was written by Alex North and Hy Zaret in 1955 and became a classic hit covered by numerous artists, Elvis’s rendition stands out for its raw, heartfelt delivery and profound connection to his audience. Elvis performed this classic ballad toward the later stages of his storied career, most notably during his final years.
A memorable version of Unchained Melody was recorded live in Rapid City, South Dakota, on June 21, 1977, during what would become one of his last concerts before his untimely death in August of the same year. This performance became legendary due to Elvis’s emotional vulnerability and his ability to convey the deep longing and love encapsulated in the lyrics. Accompanying himself on the piano, his voice shines with a raw, soulful beauty that audiences found both haunting and compelling.
Though not released as a studio single in Elvis’s career, this rendition garnered significant recognition over time. As his fans revisited his extensive catalog, his take on Unchained Melody gained a special place in their hearts. It did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100 since it wasn’t released as a formal single, yet its influence contributed to maintaining Elvis as a global cultural phenomenon.
While many versions of the song have achieved critical acclaim, Elvis’s version remains a testament to his power to transform any song into something distinctly his own. Although Unchained Melody didn’t win a Grammy for Elvis, his catalog has been honored posthumously, with the artist receiving multiple Grammy Awards during his lifetime, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1971. This ballad’s enduring legacy exemplifies Elvis’s timeless appeal and emotional artistry.
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