Elvis Presley

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Maybe I didn't treat you
Quite as good as I should have
Maybe I didn't love you
Quite as often as I could have

[Pre-Chorus]
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time

[Chorus]
You were always on my mind
(You were always on my mind)
You were always on my mind

[Verse 2]
Maybe I didn't hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I'm so happy that you're mine

[Pre-Chorus]
If I made you feel second best
Girl, I'm so sorry I was blind

[Chorus]
You were always on my mind
(You were always on my mind)
You were always on my mind
[Bridge]
Tell me
Tell me that your sweet love hasn't died
Give me
Give me one more chance to keep you satisfied, satisfied

[Pre-Chorus]
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time

[Chorus]
You were always on my mind
(You were always on my mind)
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind

[Outro]
Maybe I didn't treat you
Quite as good as I should have
Maybe I didn't love you
Quite as often as I could have
Maybe I didn't hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I'm so happy that you're mine
Maybe I didn't treat you
Quite as good as I should have

Elvis Presley's iconic ballad, "Always On My Mind," holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. Originally recorded by Brenda Lee and then released by Gwen McCrae, it was Elvis who truly made this heartfelt song his own. In March 1972, just after his turbulent break-up with Priscilla Presley in February, Elvis poured his emotions into this beautiful rendition. Little did he know that their story would ultimately lead to divorce in October 1973. To delve deeper into the intricate details of their relationship, US Magazine offers a captivating timeline.

At its core, "Always On My Mind" is a poignant confession of regret and longing. The lyrics speak of a lover who looks back on a past relationship, realizing they could have done so much more. With its emotive melody and Elvis's distinctly powerful vocals, the song has rightfully earned its place as one of his most popular and critically acclaimed pieces of art. Its timeless appeal has also garnered attention from various publications, earning high rankings among the best of Elvis's vast repertoire.

About Always On My Mind

As we dive into the depths of "Always On My Mind," the profound emotions conveyed through this timeless ballad unfold with every note. Elvis's version stands out, not only for his masterful and emotive delivery but also because of the personal context in which it was recorded. Coming on the heels of his painful separation from Priscilla Presley, it's impossible not to feel the authenticity and rawness in his interpretation.

The song carries a sense of remorse, with the lyrics acknowledging missed opportunities and unspoken words. Elvis's heartfelt delivery implies a fervent desire to make amends, expressing a profound need to rectify past mistakes. This sentiment resonates with listeners, as we have all experienced moments where we wish we had done more to express our love and appreciation.

Elvis's rendition of "Always On My Mind" showcases his remarkable vocal range and emotional depth. His well-known ability to showcase vulnerability while maintaining strength is on full display here. From the gentle and heartfelt verses to the soaring crescendos on the chorus, his voice exudes longing and the pain of a love lost. Elvis truly brings these sentiments to life, enveloping listeners in a sea of genuine emotion.

Recognizing the song's immense impact, several prominent publications and media outlets have acknowledged its brilliance. ITV, for instance, ranked "Always On My Mind" as Elvis's best song, a testament to its enduring significance. Smooth Radio placed it in the second spot on their list, further solidifying its status among the all-time greats. The Today Show also recognized its influence by including it in their rundown of Elvis's top 20 songs. Even Billboard Magazine, in their comprehensive compilation of his best hits, listed it at number 40.

As with any truly remarkable piece of music, the magic of "Always On My Mind" lies in its universal appeal. Regardless of one's personal experiences and emotions, the song effortlessly tugs at heartstrings and evokes a sense of introspection. It invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and contemplate the ways they can cherish and appreciate their loved ones.

Its brilliance is not just limited to Elvis's interpretation. Over the years, "Always On My Mind" has been covered by numerous artists, each adding their own unique twist to the emotional journey it takes us on. These renditions have ensured that the song remains relevant across generations, keeping its spirit alive and resonating with new audiences.

In essence, "Always On My Mind" stands as a testament to Elvis Presley's incomparable talent and his ability to convey raw emotions through his unmistakable voice. This beautiful ballad not only serves as a powerful expression of regret but also reminds us of the importance of love, communication, and cherishing the ones we hold dear. It continues to captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying its rightful place among the greatest songs ever recorded.

• Release Date: November 1972
• Artist: Elvis Presley