Introduction:
Elvis Presley, the iconic American singer known for popularizing Rock and Roll in the 1950s, surprisingly ventured into the realm of traditional Irish ballads later in his career. His rendition of “Danny Boy”, released in 1976 on the album “Elvis Presley Boulevard”, stands as a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal.
“Danny Boy” itself is a much older song, with origins tracing back to the early 1910s. Frederic Weatherly wrote the English lyrics to accompany an Irish folk melody known as “Londonderry Air.” The ballad tells the story of a young man leaving his loved ones behind to answer the call of duty. The melancholic tone and poignant lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a staple in the Irish folk repertoire.
Presley’s version stays true to the emotional core of the original. The song is classified as Pop in Presley’s recording, a genre shift from the traditional Irish folk style, but it retains the essence of the ballad. Presley’s powerful vocals deliver the yearning and sorrow of the lyrics with sincerity, showcasing a different side of his musical range. The recording is backed by J.D. Sumner & The Stamps on background vocals, along with Kathy Westmoreland and Myrna Smith, adding depth and harmony to the performance. The producer for the album, Felton Jarvis, is credited with shaping the final studio version that fans have come to know.
While “Danny Boy” wasn’t a chart-topping single for Presley, it has become a beloved entry in his vast catalog. It stands out for showcasing a more introspective and sentimental side of the King. Presley only ever performed the song live once, on June 1st, 1976 in Tucson, Arizona. However, the studio recording has gained a dedicated following over the years. Fans have praised the raw emotion in Presley’s voice and the sincerity with which he delivers the heartfelt lyrics. You can find “Danny Boy” on various Elvis Presley compilation albums and online streaming services, a testament to its enduring legacy among his fans.
Video:
Lyrics:
Oh Danny boy, the pipes, the pipes are callingFrom glen to glen and down the mountain sideThe summer’s gone and all the roses dying‘Tis you, ’tis you must go and I must bide
But come ye back when summer’s in the meadowOr when the valley’s hushed and white with snowAnd I’ll be here in sunshine or in shadowOh Danny boy, oh Danny boy I love you so
But if ye come and all the roses dyingAnd I am dead, as dead I well may beHe’ll come and find the place where I am lyingAnd kneel and say an ave there for me
And I shall feel, tho soft you tread above meAnd then my grave will richer, sweeter beFor you will bend and tell me that you love meAnd I shall rest in peace until you come to me