Did you know?

“It’s Now or Never” is a classic song famously performed by Elvis Presley. It was released in 1960 and quickly became one of Elvis’s most iconic and enduring hits. The song, often considered a romantic ballad, was adapted from the Italian operatic aria “O Sole Mio” by Eduardo di Capua.

Here is a detailed overview of the song:

Title: It’s Now or Never

Artist: Elvis Presley

Release Date: July 5, 1960

Genre: Pop, Rock and Roll

Songwriter: Wally Gold, Aaron Schroeder, Eduardo di Capua (original melody)

Background and Inspiration: “It’s Now or Never” is notable for its origins in the traditional Neapolitan song “O Sole Mio,” which was composed by Eduardo di Capua in 1898. The song’s original Italian lyrics were about the beauty of the sun. In the case of Elvis’s adaptation, the lyrics were rewritten in English and transformed into a poignant love song. The songwriters, Wally Gold and Aaron Schroeder, are responsible for these English lyrics.

Lyrics: The lyrics of “It’s Now or Never” express a sense of urgency in matters of the heart. They convey a feeling of longing and the desire to seize the moment for love before it’s too late. The song’s narrator implores their lover to embrace the opportunity for romance, as it may not come again.

Musical Arrangement: The musical arrangement of “It’s Now or Never” is a blend of traditional Italian melodies and Elvis’s signature rock and roll style. The song features a prominent, passionate vocal performance by Elvis, accompanied by lush orchestration, including strings, and a Spanish-style guitar that adds to the song’s romantic and dramatic atmosphere.

Commercial Success: “It’s Now or Never” was a massive commercial success for Elvis Presley. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and held that position for five weeks. The single also performed well on the UK Singles Chart, where it spent eight weeks at the top spot. It became one of Elvis’s best-selling singles and is often considered one of his most iconic songs.

Legacy: The song has had a lasting impact and remains one of the most recognizable songs in Elvis Presley’s extensive catalog. It’s often regarded as a quintessential love ballad and is frequently played at weddings and romantic events. Elvis’s heartfelt rendition of “It’s Now or Never” continues to captivate audiences and stands as a testament to his enduring influence on music.

In conclusion, “It’s Now or Never” is a timeless love song that showcases Elvis Presley’s vocal prowess and ability to make a classic song his own. Its enduring popularity and emotional resonance make it a memorable piece of Elvis’s musical legacy.

Video

Lyrics

“It’s Now Or Never”