Elvis Presley - Love me Tender - 1956
Elvis Presley - Love me Tender - 1956
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Elvis Presley's "Love Me Tender" (1956): A Timeless Classic
"Love Me Tender" is a song recorded by Elvis Presley and published by Elvis Presley Music, originally released in 1956. This ballad, adapted from the melody of the Civil War song "Aura Lee," became one of Presley's most enduring hits. It showcases his tender, emotive style, marking a departure from the more upbeat rock and roll for which he was initially known.
Historical Context and Adaptation
The original melody of "Aura Lee" dates back to 1861, composed by George R. Poulton. The Civil War era song remained popular for decades, leading to its adaptation for "Love Me Tender." In 1956, Ken Darby, under the pseudonym Vera Matson, the name of his wife, and Elvis Presley, rewrote the lyrics, transforming it into a romantic ballad.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Love Me Tender" rapidly ascended the charts, becoming a significant hit for Elvis Presley. It exemplified his ability to cross over different musical styles and appealed to a wide audience, further cementing his status as a cultural icon. The song's enduring popularity has led to numerous covers by artists over the years, showcasing its timeless appeal.
For further exploration, you can visit MOOCit for more information on Elvis Presley and the history of rock and roll music.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What is the origin of the melody used in "Love Me Tender"? (The melody is adapted from the Civil War era song "Aura Lee") (!The melody was an original composition by Elvis Presley) (!The melody was adapted from a 1920s jazz standard) (!The melody was taken from a traditional folk song)
In what year was "Love Me Tender" released? (1956) (!1954) (!1958) (!1960)
Who was credited with rewriting the lyrics of "Love Me Tender" alongside Elvis Presley? (Ken Darby, under the pseudonym Vera Matson) (!Johnny Cash) (!Sam Phillips) (!Carl Perkins)
What musical style does "Love Me Tender" primarily represent? (Romantic ballad) (!Upbeat rock and roll) (!Country) (!Blues)
For what movie was "Love Me Tender" originally recorded? ("Love Me Tender") (!"Jailhouse Rock") (!"King Creole") (!"Blue Hawaii")
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
In what year did Elvis Presley start his music career? (1954) (!1952) (!1956) (!1960)
Which of the following genres was Elvis NOT typically associated with? (Jazz) (!Rock and Roll) (!Country) (!Blues)
What was Elvis Presley's first hit song? ("Heartbreak Hotel") (!"Blue Suede Shoes") (!"Hound Dog") (!"Suspicious Minds")
Where was Elvis Presley born? (Tupelo, Mississippi) (!Memphis, Tennessee) (!Nashville, Tennessee) (!New Orleans, Louisiana)
What is Elvis Presley often referred to as? (The King of Rock and Roll) (!The Sultan of Swing) (!The Duke of Pop) (!The Emperor of Blues)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
Which line follows "Love me tender, love me sweet" in the song? ("Never let me go") (!"Always be my heart's delight") (!"Promise we'll never part") (!"Hold me close and hold me tight")
The lyrics "For my darling, I love you" signify what theme in "Love Me Tender"? (Eternal love and devotion) (!Heartbreak and loss) (!Rebellious spirit) (!Joyful celebration)
Which of these is NOT a line from "Love Me Tender"? (!"Take my hand, take my whole life too") ("I'll be yours through all the years") ("Till the end of time") ("Love me tender, love me long")
How does the song "Love Me Tender" end lyrically? ("And we'll never part") (!"Love me tender, love me true") (!"All my dreams fulfilled") (!"In your arms I find my heaven")
The line "All my dreams fulfilled" in "Love Me Tender" is often interpreted as a reflection of what? (Hope and fulfillment in love) (!A sense of adventure) (!Overcoming challenges) (!A longing for the past)
Memory
| Elvis Presley | King of Rock and Roll |
| 1956 | Release Year of "Love Me Tender" |
| "Aura Lee" | Original Melody for "Love Me Tender" |
| Romantic Ballad | Musical Style of "Love Me Tender" |
| Ken Darby | Co-writer of "Love Me Tender" |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Explore Elvis Presley's Early Career: Research and create a timeline of Elvis Presley's early career milestones.
- Cover Version Challenge: Record your own cover version of "Love Me Tender."
- Song Analysis: Analyze the lyrics of "Love Me Tender" and discuss its themes of love and commitment.
Standard
- Musical Style Comparison: Compare the musical styles of "Love Me Tender" with other Elvis Presley songs.
- Historical Context Research: Investigate the historical context of the Civil War era song "Aura Lee" and its influence on "Love Me Tender."
- Elvis Presley's Influence: Write an essay on how Elvis Presley influenced rock and roll and popular culture.
Difficult
- Comprehensive Artist Study: Conduct a detailed study of Elvis Presley's impact on music and culture, including his diverse musical styles.
- Multimedia Presentation: Create a multimedia presentation on the evolution of "Love Me Tender" from "Aura Lee" to a modern classic.
- Cultural Analysis: Analyze the cultural significance of "Love Me Tender" in the 1950s versus its relevance in contemporary times.
- Original Composition: Compose an original song inspired by "Love Me Tender," incorporating elements from the song.
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Oral Exam
- Interpretation of Lyrics: Discuss the interpretation of the lyrics of "Love Me Tender" and how they might resonate with different audiences.
- Musical Evolution: Explain the evolution of musical styles in the 1950s and how "Love Me Tender" fits into that context.
- Elvis Presley's Legacy: Discuss the legacy of Elvis Presley and how "Love Me Tender" contributed to his enduring fame.
- Cross-Generational Appeal: Explore why "Love Me Tender" has a cross-generational appeal and its impact on various age groups.
- Cultural Significance: Analyze the cultural significance of Elvis Presley's transition from rock and roll to ballads with "Love Me Tender."
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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