About the song
(Watch the video below)
In the illustrious catalogue of Elvis Presley's discography, "Hearts of Stone" emerges as a soulful rendition of a classic rhythm and blues ballad. Originally penned by Eddie Ray and Rudy Jackson, and first recorded by the R&B vocal group The Jewels in 1954, Presley's interpretation of "Hearts of Stone" adds his signature touch of emotion and intensity, transforming the song into a timeless anthem of heartache and longing. Released in 1955 as the B-side to "That's All Right," this lesser-known gem showcases Presley's versatility as an artist and his ability to infuse even the most melancholy of melodies with his distinctive style and charisma.
At its core, "Hearts of Stone" is a song about the pain of unrequited love and the emotional walls we build to protect ourselves from heartbreak. The lyrics, with lines like "You made me cry when you said goodbye / Ain't that a shame / My tears fell like rain," speak to the universal experience of longing for someone who is out of reach. Presley's emotive vocals, delivered with a rawness and vulnerability that belied his young age, capture the anguish and desperation of the protagonist as he grapples with the aftermath of a failed romance.
Musically, Presley's rendition of "Hearts of Stone" is a masterclass in restraint and emotion, with a stripped-down arrangement that allows his soulful vocals to take center stage. Backed by Scotty Moore's subtle guitar riffs and Bill Black's understated bass line, Presley's voice soars and quavers with a palpable sense of longing and regret. His phrasing is impeccable, infusing each word with a depth of feeling that resonates with listeners on a visceral level. The sparse instrumentation and haunting melody combine to create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing the listener into the protagonist's world of heartache and despair.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Presley's interpretation of "Hearts of Stone" is his ability to imbue the song with his own unique personality and style. While the original version by The Jewels was more upbeat and uptempo, Presley's rendition slows the tempo and adds a layer of emotional depth that is uniquely his own. His voice, with its rich timbre and emotive delivery, elevates the song to new heights, transforming it from a simple R&B ballad into a timeless classic that speaks to the human condition with universal resonance.
Moreover, "Hearts of Stone" also serves as a testament to Presley's enduring influence on popular music and culture. Released at a time when rock and roll was still in its infancy, Presley's interpretation of the song helped to bridge the gap between black and white audiences, introducing mainstream listeners to the rich heritage of rhythm and blues music. His soulful delivery and impassioned performance captivated audiences of all ages, solidifying his status as a cultural icon and paving the way for future generations of artists to explore and expand upon the musical traditions he helped to popularize.
In addition to its cultural significance, "Hearts of Stone" also holds a special place in the hearts of Presley's legion of fans, who continue to cherish the song as a hidden gem in his vast discography. While it may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of his more well-known hits, "Hearts of Stone" remains a testament to Presley's talent and artistry, his voice serving as a reminder of the power of music to heal, inspire, and connect us in our shared humanity. As we continue to navigate the ups and downs of life and love, "Hearts of Stone" stands as a timeless reminder that even in our darkest moments, music has the power to uplift and console us, bridging the distance between our hearts and souls.
Video
Lyrics
Let't sing along with the lyrics!
Hearts made of stone will never brake'Cause your love is never there, they just don't careYou can ask and plea, please, please, please workAnd all your love is there to stayThese hearts of stone will cause you painAlthough you love there has stopped just the sameYou can ask and plea, please, please, please workAnd all your love is there to stayBut they'll say no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, noYou daddy know, I thought I knew hearts made of stoneHearts made of stone will never brake'Cause your love is never there, they just don't careYou can ask and plea, please, please, please workAnd all your love is there to stayCause they'll say no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, noYou daddy know, I thought I knew hearts made of stone
