Studio Sessions for RCA January 13-16 and 20-23, 1969: American Studios, Memphis
As always, Freddy Bienstock came to the American sessions prepared with a combination of Elvis's request and new songs from his staff writers, as well as titles they hadn't gotten around to at previous sessions. On Elvis's list were many of the old diehards he hadn't yet gotten out of his system: Clyde McPhatter's "Without Love (There Is Nothing) was one.
Excited by meeting with a longtime role modle, Elvis threw himself whole-heartedly into "Without Love," a gospel-tinged ballad. This wasn't work, just as intense, go-for-broke performance caught on the third full take. In the same spirit as "You'll Never Walk Alone" from back in 1967, "Without Love" joined the simplicity of a country lyric with the passion of a great soul ballad, and his gospel-flavored treatment took it to a level of spirituality rarely matched in his career. Recorded January 23, 1969. First released LP: Back In Memphis (From Memphis To Vegas) 1969.
(The Complete Recording Sessions by Ernst Jorgensen)
This is dedicated to John L who has been an Elvis Fan since he was 9 years old...he heard his first Elvis song in 1955. One of his special songs "Without Love" has special meaning to him...John is from Canada and a retired policeman and a very nice man whom I'm honored to have as a friend. He also provided the top picture. "Without Love" is also special to me.....a beautiful song. |
