Introduction:
By 1969, Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, had already conquered the music world. From his electrifying early hits in the 1950s to the soundtrack success of his numerous Hollywood films, Presley’s charisma and musical innovation had captivated audiences worldwide. However, by the late 1960s, his career trajectory had shifted. The rise of the British Invasion, spearheaded by bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, had pushed rock and roll in a new direction, and Presley’s movie soundtracks, while commercially successful, were seen as a departure from his earlier, more raw energy.
It was in this context that “Only The Strong Survive” emerged. Released in June 1969 as part of the critically acclaimed album “From Elvis in Memphis”, the song marked a significant turning point in Presley’s career. Produced by the legendary Chips Moman, known for his work with artists like Aretha Franklin and Wilson Pickett, “Only The Strong Survive” signaled a deliberate move away from the soundtrack formula and a return to Presley’s roots in rhythm and blues and soul music.
The song itself, written by the songwriting team of Kenneth Gamble, Leon Huff, and Jerry Butler, was a powerful and timely statement. While not explicitly referencing the social and political turmoil of the late 1960s, the song’s lyrics spoke to themes of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity, a message that resonated deeply with audiences. Presley’s impassioned vocals, backed by a tight and soulful band, delivered the message with conviction, reminding the world of the raw talent that had first propelled him to stardom.
“Only The Strong Survive” was not just a critical success, it also achieved commercial recognition. The song reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the Hot Rhythm & Blues Sides chart, a testament to its crossover appeal and Presley’s enduring popularity. More importantly, it marked a new chapter in his career. Following the success of “From Elvis in Memphis,” Presley would continue to explore soul and gospel influences throughout the 1970s, producing some of his most critically acclaimed work.
“Only The Strong Survive” stands as a pivotal moment in Elvis Presley’s musical journey. It showcased his versatility as an artist, his ability to adapt and evolve with the times, and his enduring connection with his audience. The song’s enduring legacy lies not just in its catchy melody and powerful vocals, but also in its ability to capture a cultural moment and remind us of the enduring strength of the King of Rock and Roll.
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Lyrics:
I remember my first love affairSomehow or another, the whole darn thing went wrongMy mamma had some great adviceSo I thought I’d put it into words of this songI can still hear her sayin’ it
“Boy, oh, I see you’re sittin’ out there all aloneCryin’ your eyes out ’cause the woman that you love has goneOh, there’s gonna be, there’s gonna beA whole lot of trouble in your lifeOh, so listen to me get up off your knees‘Cause only the strong survive”That’s what she said, “Only the strong surviveOnly the strong surviveOh, you’ve got to be strong, you’d better hold onDon’t go all around with your head hung down”
Well, I wouldn’t let that little girlNo, I wouldn’t let her know that she made me feel like a clownThere’s a whole lot a girls lookin’ for a good man like youOh, but you’ll never meet ’em if you give up nowAnd say your life is throughAnd she said, “Only the strong survive, only the strong surviveOh, you’ve got to be a man, you’ve got to take a stand”
BoyBoyOh, boy
Only the strong survive, only the strong surviveWell, you’ve got to be strong, you’d better hold on‘Cause only the strong survive
Only the strong survive, only the strong surviveWell, you’ve got to be a man, you’ve got to take a stand‘Cause only the strong survive
Only the strong surviveOnly the strong surviveOnly the strong surviveOnly the strong surviveOnly the strong survive