Lingering Memories: The Poetic Resonance of Elvis Presley's "It's Still Here"
(watch the video below)
In the vast repertoire of Elvis Presley, "It's Still Here" emerges as a poignant gem, quietly reflecting the depths of human emotion through its haunting melody and introspective lyrics. Penned by the accomplished songwriting duo Don Robertson and Hal Blair, this ballad captures the essence of love lost and the enduring remnants of affection that persist long after the echoes of a relationship fade into memory.
Recorded in 1972, "It's Still Here" finds Elvis Presley at a pivotal juncture in his career. Despite being firmly established as the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis was navigating turbulent waters both in his personal life and in the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry. The early 1970s marked a period of introspection and experimentation for the iconic artist, as he sought to redefine his sound and legacy.
At its core, "It's Still Here" is a soul-stirring meditation on the enduring power of memory. The lyrics delicately weave together imagery of nostalgia and longing, painting a vivid portrait of a love that lingers like a shadow in the recesses of the mind. Lines such as "A photograph of yesterday / That seems to breathe" and "In the dusty shadows of my mind / Far away" evoke a sense of wistful yearning, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the bittersweet embrace of remembrance.
Complementing the lyrical depth of "It's Still Here" is its evocative musical arrangement. Softly strummed acoustic guitars, tender piano melodies, and sweeping strings converge to create a sonic landscape that is at once intimate and expansive. The gentle ebb and flow of the instrumentation mirror the ephemerality of memory itself, rising and falling like waves against the shores of consciousness.
While "It's Still Here" may not have enjoyed the same commercial success as some of Elvis's more upbeat hits, its impact has endured through the years. Revered by fans and critics alike, the song stands as a testament to Elvis's artistry and emotional depth as a performer. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to resonate with audiences across generations, solidifying its place as a timeless classic in the annals of popular music.
In the final analysis, "It's Still Here" serves as a poignant reminder of Elvis Presley's enduring legacy. Through its achingly beautiful melody and lyrical introspection, the song transcends the boundaries of time and space, touching the hearts of all who encounter it. As the years pass and musical trends evolve, "It's Still Here" remains a steadfast beacon of emotional truth, a testament to the eternal power of love and memory in the human experience.
In the vast tapestry of Elvis Presley's legendary career, "It's Still Here" shines as a luminous testament to the enduring power of love and memory. Through its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, the song invites listeners to embark on a journey of introspection and remembrance, weaving together the threads of past and present into a timeless tapestry of emotion. As the echoes of Elvis's voice fade into the ether, "It's Still Here" remains, a testament to the enduring legacy of the King of Rock and Roll.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics !
The day you said we'd never part
You turned around and broke my heart
You had the nerve to tell me I would soon forget
Now you've been gone away one year
And I have not forgotten dear
The love I had for you so long
Is still here
Wow-oh
It's here, still here
Because my heart cannot believe
We're really through
And though you said we'd never part
You turned around and broke my heart
The love I had for you so long
Is still here
It's here, still here
Because my heart cannot believe
We're really through
Now you've been gone away one year
And I have not forgotten dear
The love I had for you so long
Is still here
Wow-oh
It's here, it's here, still here
Because my heart cannot believe
We're really through
And though you said we'd never part
You turned around and broke my heart
The love I had for you so long
Is still here
Wow-ow
It's here, still here
Because my heart cannot believe
We're really through
And though you said we'd never part
You turned around and broke my heart
The love I had for you so long
Is still here
Oh yeah
