Introduction:
In 1975, a decade after his meteoric rise to rock and roll stardom, Elvis Presley released “Your Love’s Been a Long Time Coming”. This soulful ballad marked a significant turning point in Presley’s career. While still retaining the undeniable charisma that made him a global icon, the song showcased a more mature and introspective side of the artist.
Produced by Felton Jarvis, a longtime collaborator who had worked with Presley throughout the 1960s and 70s, “Your Love’s Been a Long Time Coming” deviated from the high-octane rock and roll of Presley’s early years. Instead, it embraced a more soulful gospel sound, with backing vocals provided by the legendary J.D. Sumner and The Stamps. This shift in genre reflected Presley’s evolving musical tastes and his desire to explore a broader artistic palette.
The song itself, penned by songwriter Rory Michael Bourke, captured a poignant sentiment of longing and delayed fulfillment. The lyrics, though not explicitly written about romantic love, speak to a yearning for something deeply desired that has finally arrived. This theme resonated with Presley’s audience, many of whom had grown alongside him and were witnessing a similar evolution in their own lives.
Despite not achieving the chart-topping success of Presley’s earlier hits, “Your Love’s Been a Long Time Coming” holds a special place in the hearts of fans and music historians alike. It serves as a testament to Presley’s artistic growth and his enduring ability to connect with his audience on an emotional level. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to convey themes of perseverance, hope, and the ultimate arrival of something longed for.
“Your Love’s Been a Long Time Coming” was featured on Presley’s gospel-influenced album, “Promised Land”. Released in January 1975, the album reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, showcasing Presley’s continued ability to connect with diverse audiences. Though not a major commercial success upon its initial release, “Your Love’s Been a Long Time Coming” has been re-evaluated in recent years, gaining recognition for its soulful delivery and Presley’s powerful vocals.
The song stands as a reminder of Presley’s incredible versatility and his willingness to push beyond the boundaries of what was expected from the “King of Rock and Roll.” It represents a significant chapter in his artistic journey, showcasing a depth and maturity that resonated with fans both old and new.
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Lyrics:
The first time I saw you I knew I was hooked on somebody other than meAnd the first time I held you, your soft lips and blue eyesWere as far as my eyes could see
Yes, here in my arms I knew I had found the reason that I’m livin’ forAnd I felt the feeling, such a wonderful feelingThat I’d never felt before
Baby, you’re love’s (baby, you’re love) been a long time comin’Baby your love’s (baby, you’re love) got a hold on meBaby your love’s (baby, you’re love) sure got me hummin’Baby your love’s been a long time comin’
Deep in my heart, there’s a feeling I never knewUntil I saw a love that was very newI’m gonna tell everyone what good love can do
Baby, you’re love’s (baby, you’re love) been a long time comin’Baby your love’s (baby, you’re love) got a hold on meBaby your love’s (baby, you’re love) sure got me hummin’Baby your love’s been a long time comin’
I said itMy baby, you’re love’s (baby, you’re love) been a long time comin’Baby your love’s (baby your love) got a hold on meBaby your love’s (baby your love)…