Love's Lament: Exploring the Emotional Depths of Elvis Presley's "It's a Matter of Time"
(watch the video below)
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, left an indelible mark on the world of music with his powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and timeless hits. Among his vast repertoire, "It's a Matter of Time" stands out as a poignant reflection of love and loss. Released in 1973, the song captures Presley's mature vocal style and emotional depth. In this comprehensive analysis, we delve into the lyrics, musical composition, cultural context, and legacy of "It's a Matter of Time," exploring its significance in the pantheon of Elvis Presley's legendary career.
"It's a Matter of Time" was written by Clive Westlake and recorded by Elvis Presley for his 1972 album "Burning Love and Hits from His Movies, Volume 2." The song was released as a single in January 1973, reaching moderate success on the charts. While not as commercially successful as some of Presley's earlier hits, "It's a Matter of Time" remains a fan favorite and a testament to Presley's versatility as an artist.
The lyrics of "It's a Matter of Time" explore themes of heartache, regret, and the passage of time. The song's narrator reflects on a failed relationship, acknowledging the inevitability of its demise. Lines such as "Love's a worn-out whisper on the wind" and "Each night I ask the stars up above / Why must I be a teenager in love?" convey a sense of longing and resignation. Despite the pain of lost love, there is a glimmer of hope in the refrain, as the narrator declares, "It's a matter of time / Till you change your mind."
Musically, "It's a Matter of Time" features a lush orchestral arrangement with prominent strings and gentle percussion. The song begins with a melodic guitar riff that sets the tone for Presley's heartfelt vocals. Throughout the track, Presley's voice soars effortlessly over the instrumentation, imbuing the lyrics with raw emotion. The arrangement builds to a dramatic climax in the bridge, with Presley's voice reaching its full power before tapering off into a soft, melancholic outro.
The early 1970s marked a transitional period in Elvis Presley's career. By this time, he had already achieved legendary status as a rock and roll icon, but his music was evolving to encompass a wider range of styles, including country, gospel, and pop. "It's a Matter of Time" reflects this musical evolution, incorporating elements of pop balladry while retaining Presley's signature vocal intensity. The song's themes of love and loss also resonated with audiences during a tumultuous period in history, as people grappled with social and political upheaval.
Though not as well-known as some of Elvis Presley's more iconic hits, "It's a Matter of Time" remains a cherished part of his discography. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to Presley's ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. Over the years, "It's a Matter of Time" has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films and television shows, ensuring its legacy for future generations of music lovers.
In conclusion, "It's a Matter of Time" stands as a poignant reminder of Elvis Presley's enduring influence on popular music. With its heartfelt lyrics, stirring musical arrangement, and powerful vocal performance, the song continues to captivate audiences more than five decades after its initial release. As we celebrate the legacy of the King of Rock and Roll, "It's a Matter of Time" remains a testament to his unparalleled talent and lasting impact on the world of music.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics !
It's a matter of time before I go back there
A matter of time before I go home
I have been away from her now for a long time
And I've lived a life I thought that it should be
It's a long, long way from now to maybe sometime
And the waiting 'round is really killing me
It's a matter of time before I go back there
A matter of time, oh Lord, before I go home
It's a long way I know and the goin' ain't easy
She'll see me again; it's a matter of time
I think I'll take a train right early in the morning
Just to see how far I get along the way
But the trains don't run too often, only sometimes
So I guess I'd better wait another day
It's a matter of time before I go back there
A matter of time before I go home
It's a long way I know and the goin' ain't easy
She'll see me again; it's just a matter of time
She'll see me I know; it's a matter of time
