Never Ending by Elvis Presley (1963)

Ah, yes, Never Ending by the legendary Elvis Presley. Released in 1964, this gem might not be one of Presley’s chart-topping hits, but for those who delve a little deeper into the King’s vast catalog, it becomes a delightful discovery.

Now, 1963 was a pivotal year for Elvis. His film career was in full swing, churning out commercially successful movies like “It Happened at the World’s Fair” and “Kissin’ Cousins.” Musically, however, there was a subtle shift. The rock and roll fire of his early Sun Records days was evolving into a more polished sound, embracing pop sensibilities while still retaining that undeniable Elvis charisma.

Never Ending perfectly exemplifies this transition. Recorded in May 1963, it wasn’t actually released until the following year as the B-side to the single “Such a Night.” The songwriting duo of Buddy Kaye and Philip Springer crafted a tender ballad that allowed Elvis to showcase his softer side.

The ballad format was nothing new for Elvis, of course. Throughout his career, he excelled at delivering heartfelt love songs. But Never Ending stands out for its genuine sweetness and sincerity. The lyrics paint a picture of a love so profound and enduring, the singer declares it – you guessed it – never ending.

“My love for you, my darling, is a love that will never die,” Elvis croons, his voice smooth as velvet. The backing instrumentation is equally restrained, featuring a gentle acoustic guitar strumming and subtle orchestral flourishes that build subtly in the chorus. The Jordanaires, Elvis’s longtime vocal group, add their signature harmonies, providing a layer of richness and depth.

Never Ending might not have the electrifying energy of Elvis’s early rock and roll anthems, but it offers a different kind of thrill. It’s a testament to his versatility as a performer, his ability to deliver a powerful ballad with just as much conviction as a foot-stomping rocker. It’s a song for long drives down empty highways, for slow dances under the moonlight, for those quiet moments when you want to simply bask in the feeling of everlasting love.

So, while Never Ending may not be as widely known as some of Elvis’s other hits, it deserves a place in the pantheon of his greatest recordings. It’s a hidden gem, a testament to the King’s enduring legacy, and a reminder of the depth and tenderness that resided beneath that rock and roll swagger.

Video

Lyrics

“Never Ending”
(from “Double Trouble” soundtrack)