Introduction:
While Elvis Presley’s career is synonymous with electrifying performances, hip-swiveling dance moves, and chart-topping rock and roll anthems, 1964’s “Today, Tomorrow and Forever” offers a glimpse into a different side of the King. Released as part of the soundtrack for the MGM film “Viva Las Vegas,” the song falls under the genre of romantic ballad, showcasing Presley’s softer vocals and crooning style.
Composed by the songwriting trio of Bernie Baum, Florence Kaye, and Bill Giant, “Today, Tomorrow and Forever” takes inspiration from a classical piece titled “Liebestraum” by Franz Liszt. The song was produced by Saul Chaplin, a prolific figure behind many of Presley’s film soundtracks throughout the 1960s. While not credited on the record, Presley was likely backed by his usual group of studio musicians, “The Memphis Boys,” known for their tight rhythm section and signature sound.
Despite its inclusion in a commercially successful film, “Today, Tomorrow and Forever” did not achieve the same level of mainstream recognition as some of Presley’s other hits. It wasn’t released as a single and didn’t appear on any of Presley’s major studio albums at the time. However, the song holds a certain charm for its fans, offering a departure from his more high-octane performances.
The lyrics express a deep and unwavering devotion to a lover. Lines like “Today, tomorrow, and forever, my love for you will grow stronger” and “Through sunshine or stormy weather, you’re all I want, never another” paint a picture of a love that transcends time and circumstance. Presley delivers these declarations with a sincerity that resonates with listeners seeking a heartfelt ballad.
While not a chart-topping success story, “Today, Tomorrow and Forever” serves as a reminder of Presley’s versatility. He could effortlessly switch gears from the high-energy rock and roll that propelled him to superstardom to the tender ballads that showcased his smooth vocals and romantic appeal. The song holds a certain historical value, capturing a specific period in his film career and the evolving soundtracks that accompanied them. Today, it remains a lesser-known gem for dedicated fans, offering a glimpse into a different facet of the King’s musical legacy.