Introduction:
While Elvis Presley’s legacy is undeniably tied to electrifying rock-and-roll anthems and heart-stopping ballads, hidden gems within his repertoire offer a glimpse into his artistic versatility. “Just Pretend,” released in 1970, isn’t just a soundtrack filler from the film “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is.” It’s a tender duet with actress and singer Ann-Margret, showcasing a softer side of Elvis and the power of love’s simple declarations.
Composed by songwriting trio Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, and Florence Kaye, “Just Pretend” initially emerged during Elvis’s 1970 recording sessions for the album “That’s the Way It Is.” The song’s origins weren’t tied to the film, but its message of love and commitment resonated perfectly with the on-screen romance between Elvis and Ann-Margret. Director Dennis Sanders incorporated the song into the film, transforming it into a powerful duet that captured the emotional core of their characters’ relationship.
Gone are the electrifying stage presence and signature rockabilly swagger. In “Just Pretend,” Elvis delivers a nuanced vocal performance, his voice brimming with sincerity and vulnerability. He harmonizes beautifully with Ann-Margret, whose playful yet powerful vocals add another layer of depth to the song. Together, their voices create a tapestry of tenderness and strength, perfectly conveying the complexities of love and commitment.
Though not released as a single initially, “Just Pretend” quickly gained popularity thanks to its inclusion in the film. The song resonated with audiences beyond Elvis’s usual rockabilly fan base, showcasing the enduring appeal of his softer ballads. It charted at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating the song’s ability to connect with a diverse range of listeners.
“Just Pretend” transcends its cinematic origins. The song’s simple yet powerful message of love and unwavering loyalty resonates with listeners across generations. It’s a reminder that love’s magic often lies not in grand gestures, but in the quiet promises and unwavering support shared between partners.
“Just Pretend” has become a beloved entry in Elvis’s extensive repertoire. It has been covered by numerous artists, featured in television shows and romantic films, and remains a popular choice for weddings and special occasions. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to capture the essence of love’s simple joys and remind us of the power of staying true to one another, even amidst life’s challenges.
Elvis Presley’s “Just Pretend” isn’t just a catchy duet; it’s an invitation to celebrate love’s simple joys. As Elvis and Ann-Margret’s voices weave together, remember, sometimes the greatest gestures come in the form of quiet promises and unwavering support. So, let this song inspire you to cherish the love you share, hold onto the power of “just pretending,” and know that true connection can withstand the test of time.
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Lyrics:
Just pretend, I’m holding youAnd whispering things soft and lowAnd think of me, how it’s gonna beJust pretend I didn’t goWhen I walked away, I heard you sayIf you need me, you know what to doI knew it then, I’d be back againJust pretend I’m right there with youAnd I’ll come flying to you, oh yesAll the crying is trueOh, I will hold you and love you againBut until then, we’ll just pretendIt’s funny but I can’t recallThe things we said or why you’re cryingBut now I know it was wrong to goI belong here by your sideYes, I’ll come flying to you, oh yesAll the crying is trueI will hold you and love you againBut until then, we’ll just pretendOh, I will hold you and love you againBut until then, until then, we’ll just pretendWe’ll just pretend