About the song
“Elvis Presley: The King’s Farewell to the World”
There are moments in music history that transcend time and place, becoming cultural touchstones. One such moment is Elvis Presley’s iconic performance of “My Way” during his 1973 Aloha from Hawaii via satellite. This wasn’t just a concert; it was a global event that showcased the King of Rock and Roll at the peak of his powers, and it remains one of the most watched broadcasts in television history.
“My Way,” originally a French chanson popularized by Frank Sinatra, became a symbol of personal empowerment and defiance. Elvis, with his unmistakable voice and charismatic stage presence, infused the song with a raw emotional intensity that was uniquely his own. The lyrics, which speak of a life lived on one’s own terms, resonated deeply with audiences of all ages. But it was the context of the performance — a live concert beamed around the world from a tropical paradise — that elevated the song to legendary status.
Imagine the scene: a young Elvis, full of energy and rebellion, had shaken the world with his hip-swiveling performances in the 1950s. Now, here he was, a more mature and reflective artist, delivering a powerful rendition of a song that seemed to sum up his entire life. The contrast between the youthful firebrand and the seasoned performer was striking, and it added a layer of complexity to the song.
The performance itself is a masterclass in showmanship. Elvis commands the stage with his trademark charisma, his voice soaring to emotional heights and then dropping to intimate lows. The backing band is tight, and the crowd is electric, their cheers and applause adding to the overall sense of excitement. But it is Elvis who is the star of the show, and he delivers a performance that is both unforgettable and timeless.
For many fans, “My Way” is more than just a song; it’s a statement of intent. It’s a declaration of independence, a refusal to conform to societal expectations. And when Elvis sings it, it feels like he’s speaking directly to each and every one of us. It’s no wonder that the song has become such a beloved part of the American songbook.
Elvis Presley’s “My Way” from the Aloha from Hawaii concert is a testament to the power of music to connect people across cultures and generations. It’s a performance that has been analyzed and celebrated for decades, and it continues to inspire new generations of fans.
Video
Lyrics
And now the end is near
So I face the final curtain
My friend, I’ll say it clear
I’ll state my case of which I’m certain
I’ve lived a life that’s full
I’ve traveled each and every highway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way
Regrets, I’ve had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exception
I planned each charted course
Each careful step along the byway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way
Yes, there were times, I’m sure you know
That I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all when there was doubt
I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all and I stood tall
And did it my way
I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried
I’ve had my fill, my share of losing
And now as tears subside
I find it all so amusing
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way
Oh, no, no not me
I did it my way
For what is a man, what has he got
If not himself, then he has not
To say the words he truly feels
And not the words of one who kneels
The record shows I took the blows
And did it my way
