Introduction:
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, wasn’t just about swiveling hips and teenage screams. His artistry extended far beyond the flamboyant showmanship, encompassing a vulnerability and emotional depth that resonated with audiences on a profound level. “Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be),” released in 1962, offers a glimpse into this lesser-explored facet of his musical persona.
This ballad, written by Sid Wayne and Ben Weisman, showcases a different side to the charismatic performer. Gone are the brash declarations of love and the youthful exuberance of his early hits. Instead, we encounter a more mature, introspective Elvis, willing to surrender to the whims of his lover. The song’s melancholic melody, coupled with Elvis’s restrained vocals, creates an atmosphere of longing and quiet desperation.
The lyrics, though simple, are deeply affecting. Phrases like “Any way you want me, that’s how I will be” and “I’ll bend and I’ll sway, just to hear you say you love me” convey a sense of profound devotion and a willingness to adapt and compromise for the sake of love. This willingness to surrender control, to allow himself to be shaped by his lover’s desires, reveals a vulnerability rarely seen in Elvis’s earlier work.
“Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be)” is a testament to Elvis’s artistic growth and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. It’s a song that transcends the typical rock and roll tropes, offering a glimpse into the complexities of love and the human condition. This ballad, with its understated power and emotional depth, serves as a reminder that Elvis Presley was more than just a singer; he was a true artist who explored the full spectrum of human emotion through his music.