Introduction:
While the title “It’s Only Love” conjures images of sweet serenades, Elvis Presley’s 1972 rendition carries a bittersweet weight. The song, originally written and performed by B.J. Thomas in 1969, took on a different life when the King of Rock and Roll covered it.
Presley’s version, released as a single alongside “The Sound of Your Cry,” reveals a man wrestling with internal conflict. The lyrics paint a picture of longing and admiration for a woman, but they’re juxtaposed with the harsh reality of limitations and unfulfilled desires. He sings of her “warm smile” and “sunlight in her hair,” yet acknowledges the distance between them and the ticking clock of time. The chorus, “It’s only love that I feel inside / But I’ll get by somehow / It’s only love, there must be something else for me girl,” lays bare the paradox of love’s power and its shortcomings.
While not a major hit in the US, “It’s Only Love” found surprising success in the UK, reaching number 3 on the charts in 1980. This resurgence, years after its initial release, speaks to the song’s enduring resonance. It captures a universal human experience: the yearning for connection, the sting of unrequited love, and the resilience that allows us to move forward.
Presley’s delivery adds another layer of complexity. His signature soulful vocals imbue the lyrics with vulnerability and a touch of desperation. This rawness connects with listeners who have ever grappled with love’s complexities, making “It’s Only Love” more than just a catchy tune; it’s a poignant reflection on the human condition.
Whether you’re a die-hard Elvis fan or simply appreciate introspective music, “It’s Only Love” deserves a listen. It’s a reminder that love, in all its messy glory, remains a powerful force that shapes our lives, even when it leaves us wanting more.