About The Song
Released in 1971 on the soundtrack to his film “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is,” “Heart of Rome” by Elvis Presley isn’t your typical rock ‘n’ roll anthem; it’s a journey through ancient ruins and timeless dreams, a gentle ballad steeped in nostalgia and longing. This introspective serenade, adorned with Mediterranean influences and Elvis’s smooth vocals, offers a glimpse into the King’s introspective side and his undeniable allure for the Eternal City.
Composed by Geoffrey Stephens, A. Blaikley, and K. Howard, the song was specifically written for the film, capturing the romance and historical richness of Rome. However, upon hearing the melody, Elvis recognized something deeper, a reflection of his own longing for authenticity and a connection to his artistic roots. The lyrics, filled with yearning for a simpler time and a desire to escape the pressures of stardom, resonated deeply with the King, adding a layer of personal vulnerability to the song.
The musical composition mirrors the song’s introspective lyrics. The opening acoustic guitar and mandolin set the stage for a melancholic yet hopeful ambiance. Elvis’s vocals, soft and yearning, carry the weight of the melody, each note whispering of lost moments and unspoken dreams. The subtle hints of flamenco rhythms and Italian instrumentation lend a touch of exoticism, evoking the ancient streets and sun-drenched piazzas of Rome.
“Heart of Rome” isn’t simply a love song; it’s a declaration of affection for the city itself. Elvis sings of wandering through the ancient ruins, imagining the whispers of forgotten stories, and yearning for a simpler life amidst the city’s timeless beauty. The lyrics, “Heart of Rome, you beat within my soul,” showcase a deep connection to the city’s history and culture, offering a glimpse into Elvis’s own artistic muse.
While not one of Elvis’s greatest commercial successes, “Heart of Rome” has garnered a devoted following among fans who appreciate its introspective melody and poetic lyrics. The song’s message of finding solace in history and beauty continues to resonate, offering a timeless reminder that even amidst the pressures of the present, there’s always a place to find peace and inspiration in the whispers of the past.
Close your eyes and let Elvis Presley’s “Heart of Rome” transport you to a world of ancient echoes and sun-drenched streets. This introspective ballad isn’t just a song; it’s an invitation to wander through the cobblestone alleys of Rome, to feel the weight of history on your skin, and to find solace in the timeless beauty that surrounds us. So, join Elvis on this journey through cobbled streets and forgotten dreams, and let the King’s gentle voice guide you to a place where the heart of Rome whispers its secrets into your soul.
Video
Lyrics
In a little while you’re leavingStarting on the journey homeSoon I’ll be alone, the one who loves youLa la la la la, somewhere in the heart of RomeI’ll make a wish in every fountainSay a prayer that you’ll returnMinutes I’ll be countingMay the fire of love still burnI’ll keep your picture by my pillowAnd pretend I’m not aloneMake believe that you are with meLa la la la la, in the heart of RomeSuddenly the tears are fallingAs we hear the whistle blowHold me very close before you leave meLa la la la la, somewhere in the heart of RomeI’ll make a wish in every fountainSay a prayer that you’ll returnMinutes I’ll be countingMay the fire of love still burnI’ll keep your picture by my pillowAnd pretend I’m not aloneMake believe that you are with meLa la la la la, in the heart of RomeI’ll make a wish in every fountainSay a prayer that you’ll returnMinutes I’ll be countingMay the fire of love still burnI’ll keep your picture by my pillowAnd pretend I’m not aloneMake believe that you are with meLa la la la la, in the heart of Rome