Introduction:
“Words” is a song originally written and performed by the Bee Gees in 1968. The song was penned by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, and it became one of the group’s most beloved ballads. With its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody, “Words” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including the legendary Elvis Presley.
Elvis Presley first performed “Words” live during his 1969 Las Vegas engagement at the International Hotel, a period that marked his triumphant return to live performances after several years focused on movie-making. The 1969 engagement is often seen as a pivotal moment in Elvis’s career, as it signaled his return to live music and showcased his versatility as a performer. His rendition of “Words” during these shows demonstrated his ability to take a contemporary pop song and infuse it with his unique style, blending elements of rock, pop, and soul.
Elvis’s performance of “Words” was captured on the live album “Elvis in Person at the International Hotel,” which was released as part of the double album “From Memphis to Vegas/From Vegas to Memphis” in 1969. The live recording captures the energy and excitement of Elvis’s return to the stage, as well as his emotional connection to the material he chose to perform. His version of “Words” is characterized by its smooth vocal delivery and the subtle yet powerful emotional depth that Elvis brought to the song.
The choice to include “Words” in his live repertoire speaks to Elvis’s appreciation for the Bee Gees’ songwriting and his desire to connect with the contemporary music of the time. The song’s lyrics, which speak of the power of words in expressing love and emotion, resonated with Elvis and allowed him to showcase a more tender and introspective side of his musical persona.
In conclusion, Elvis Presley’s performance of “Words” is a testament to his ability to interpret and elevate the work of other artists, making it his own while staying true to the original spirit of the song. His 1969 live performances of the song remain a highlight of his later career, offering a glimpse into his musical evolution and his enduring impact on popular music.