Elvis Presley – The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face

About The Song

(Watch the video below)

Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, left an indelible mark on music history with his captivating voice and charismatic stage presence. While he is primarily remembered for his energetic rock and roll performances, Presley’s versatility as an artist allowed him to masterfully interpret songs from various genres, including soulful ballads. One such ballad that stands out in Presley’s repertoire is “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” a hauntingly beautiful love song that he delivered with unparalleled emotion and sincerity.

Written by British folk singer-songwriter Ewan MacColl in 1957, “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” gained widespread recognition after it was covered by Roberta Flack in 1969. Flack’s rendition, characterized by its soulful delivery and intimate arrangement, earned her a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973. However, it was Elvis Presley’s rendition of the song that added another layer of depth and emotion to its already poignant lyrics.

Released in 1972 as part of Presley’s album “Burning Love and Hits from His Movies, Volume 2,” his version of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” showcased a different side of the legendary performer. Stripped of the bombastic instrumentation often associated with his rock and roll hits, Presley’s interpretation of the song was raw and vulnerable, allowing his soulful voice to take center stage. Accompanied by gentle acoustic guitar strums and subtle orchestration, Presley’s delivery was filled with longing and tenderness, capturing the essence of the song’s poignant lyrics.

“The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is a love song that speaks to the transformative power of love and the overwhelming emotions that accompany it. The lyrics describe the profound impact of seeing someone for the first time and the deep connection that forms in that moment. Presley’s interpretation of the song was deeply personal, reflecting his own experiences and emotions. Through his soulful delivery, he brought the song’s narrative to life, evoking a sense of longing and yearning that resonated with listeners on a profound level.

What sets Presley’s rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” apart is his ability to infuse the song with genuine emotion and authenticity. Known for his electrifying stage presence and dynamic vocal range, Presley demonstrated a remarkable ability to convey vulnerability and sensitivity in his performance of this intimate ballad. His voice, rich with emotion and depth, captured the essence of the song’s lyrics, drawing listeners into its poignant narrative.

Presley’s rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” marked a departure from his usual rock and roll repertoire, showcasing his versatility as an artist. While he was celebrated for his energetic performances and chart-topping hits, this soulful ballad allowed him to showcase a different aspect of his talent. His interpretation of the song demonstrated his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level, leaving a lasting impression that continues to resonate with audiences to this day.

In conclusion, Elvis Presley’s rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” stands as a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Through his soulful delivery and heartfelt interpretation, Presley brought new depth and emotion to this timeless love song. His ability to convey vulnerability and authenticity in his performance solidified his status as an iconic artist whose influence transcends generations. As we continue to celebrate his contributions to music, Presley’s rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” remains a poignant reminder of his unparalleled talent and enduring legacy.

Video

Lyrics: Let’s sing along with the lyrics!

The first time ever I saw your face
I thought the sun rose in your eyes
And the moon and stars were the gifts you gave
To the dark and the empty skies my love
To the dark and the empty skies

The first time ever I kissed your mouth
I felt the earth move in my hands
Like a trembling heart of a captive bird
That was there at my command my love
That was there at my command

Hoa hoa hoa oh oh oh oh oh oh
Woh oh oh oh hoa hoa hoa
Oh hoa hoa hoa hoa hoa hoa
That was there at my command my love
That was there at my command

The first time ever I kissed your mouth
I felt the earth move in my hands
Like a trembling heart of a captive bird
That was there at my command my love
That was there at my command

Hoa hoa hoa oh oh oh oh oh oh
Woh oh oh oh hoa hoa hoa
Oh hoa hoa hoa hoa hoa hoa
That was there at my command my love
That was there at my command