The Girl of My Best Friend – Elvis Presley

Introduction

The Girl of My Best Friend: A Song of Forbidden Love and Unrequited Longing

“The Girl of My Best Friend,” released in 1960 by Elvis Presley, is a timeless ballad that speaks to the universal experience of unrequited love. ThoughElvis wasn’t the first to record the song, his soulful rendition catapulted it to international fame, leaving an indelible mark on popular music history.

Written by Sam Bobrick and Beverly Ross, the song tells the story of a man hopelessly infatuated with his best friend’s girlfriend. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the woman’s beauty and charm, detailing her “lovely hair,” “skin so fair,” and captivating personality. The narrator’s longing is palpable, as he desires to express his feelings but fears the consequences of jeopardizing his friendship.

The song’s emotional depth lies in its relatable conflict. Torn between loyalty and love, the narrator expresses his internal struggle through lines like “How long can I pretend?” and “I could go on and never end.” His vulnerability and honesty resonate with listeners who have ever found themselves in similar situations.

Beyond its personal appeal, “The Girl of My Best Friend” also offers a glimpse into the social norms of its era. The lyrics reflect the societal pressure to prioritize loyalty and friendship above personal desires, particularly within male relationships. This theme adds another layer to the song’s complexity, prompting listeners to ponder the nature of love, friendship, and the sacrifices we make for both.

Elvis’s powerful vocals and the Jordanaires’ smooth harmonies breathe life into the song’s melancholic melody. Their masterful performance perfectly captures the song’s emotional core, transforming “The Girl of My Best Friend” into a poignant anthem of forbidden love and unrequited longing.

Video

Lyrics

The way she walks
The way she talks
How long can I pretend
Oh I can’t help I’m in love
With the girl of my best friend

Her lovely hair
Her skin so fair
I could go on and never end
Oh, I can’t help I’m in love
With the girl of my best friend

I want to tell her
How I love her so
And hold her in my arms, but then
What if she got real mad and told him so
I could never face either one again

The way they kiss
Their happiness
Will my aching heart ever mend?
Or will I always be in love
With the girl of my best friend?

Never end
Will it ever end?
Please let it end