About the song
(Watch the video below)
In the vast and illustrious catalog of Elvis Presley's musical legacy, "For Ol' Times Sake" stands as a poignant testament to his ability to evoke profound emotions through his soulful voice and heartfelt delivery. Released as a single in 1973, the song exemplifies Presley's mastery of blending elements of rock, country, and gospel into a melodic tapestry that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level.
"At the end of the rainbow, there's happiness, And to find it, how often I've tried" – these opening lines of "For Ol' Times Sake" instantly transport listeners into a world of nostalgia and longing. Written by Tony Joe White and Jerry L. Crutchfield, the song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of yearning for the past and the bittersweet ache of lost love. It's a sentiment that strikes a chord with anyone who has experienced the tug of nostalgia and the desire to recapture moments gone by.
Elvis's rendition of "For Ol' Times Sake" is a masterclass in emotive singing, as he infuses each word with palpable emotion and vulnerability. His rich, velvety voice conveys the depth of the protagonist's longing and regret, drawing listeners into the heart-wrenching narrative with unparalleled intensity. From the tender crooning of the verses to the impassioned wails of the chorus, Presley's performance leaves an indelible impression, evoking a sense of empathy and connection that transcends time and space.
Musically, "For Ol' Times Sake" is a masterpiece of understated elegance, with its lush instrumentation and haunting melody creating a sense of intimacy and introspection. The song's gentle guitar strumming, sweeping strings, and soulful piano accompaniment enhance the emotional impact of the lyrics, providing a poignant backdrop for Presley's emotive vocals. Each note is imbued with meaning, as Elvis's heartfelt delivery breathes life into the timeless melody, transforming it into a poignant anthem of love and longing.
One of the most striking aspects of "For Ol' Times Sake" is its universal appeal, as it speaks to the shared experience of longing for the past and the comfort of familiar memories. Whether you're a devoted Elvis fan or simply a lover of heartfelt ballads, the song's emotional resonance is undeniable, touching the hearts of listeners with its raw honesty and authenticity.
Moreover, "For Ol' Times Sake" serves as a testament to Elvis's enduring legacy as a master storyteller and interpreter of song. Throughout his career, he had a knack for finding the emotional core of a song and bringing it to life with his unparalleled vocal talent and magnetic stage presence. "For Ol' Times Sake" is no exception, as Elvis's heartfelt rendition elevates the song to new heights, cementing its status as a timeless classic in the annals of popular music.
In many ways, "For Ol' Times Sake" encapsulates the essence of Elvis Presley as an artist and a man. Like the protagonist of the song, Elvis experienced the highs and lows of love and life, navigating the complexities of fame and fortune with grace and humility. In "For Ol' Times Sake," we hear echoes of his own journey, his voice serving as a conduit for the emotions he himself experienced, inviting listeners to share in his triumphs and tribulations.
As we continue to revisit Elvis Presley's legendary discography, songs like "For Ol' Times Sake" serve as a reminder of his enduring impact on popular music and culture. With its heartfelt lyrics, soul-stirring melody, and emotive delivery, "For Ol' Times Sake" remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, inviting them to explore the depths of human emotion through the transcendent power of music.
Video
Lyrics
Let't sing along with the lyrics!
Before you go walk out on me
Take a look around tell me what you see
Here I stand like an open book
Is there something here you might have overlooked
'Cause it would be a shame if you should leave
And find that freedom ain't what you thought it would be
The years we had were not all bad
In fact I know the good outweighed the bad
Now you say that you've grown tired
You want to be by yourself a while
It would be a shame if you should go
And find that freedom was a long time ago
I know that you can't stand the chains that bind you
They just keep on drivin' us apart
You could go where I could never find you
But could you go far enough to get away from your heart
So one more time, for ol' times sake
Come and lay your head upon my chest
Please don't throw this moment away
We can forget the bad and take the best
If you don't have nothing left to say
Let me hold you one more time for ol' times sake
If you don't have nothing left to say
Let me hold you one more time for ol' times sake
