About the song
“Can’t Help Falling in Love,” immortalized by Elvis Presley, resonates as one of the most enduring love ballads in music history. Originally recorded for the soundtrack of Presley’s 1961 film “Blue Hawaii,” the song was penned by songwriting trio Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore, and George David Weiss. Its melody draws from the classical French love song “Plaisir d’amour,” composed by Jean-Paul-Égide Martini in 1784, adding a timeless quality to its romantic allure.
Presley’s rendition of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” became an instant classic, topping charts in both the UK and the US. In the UK, it secured the number one spot for four weeks, while in the US, it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s popularity extended beyond its initial release, earning platinum certification from the RIAA for sales exceeding one million copies in the United States alone.
Beyond its chart success, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” became a fixture in Presley’s live performances from the late 1960s onward. It was frequently used as a show-closing number, notably featured in his 1968 NBC television special and his historic 1973 “Aloha from Hawaii” global telecast. The song’s presence in these iconic performances underscored its status as a definitive piece in Presley’s repertoire.
Over the decades, the song has been revisited by various artists, each bringing their interpretation to its beloved melody. Notable covers include versions by Swedish pop group A-Teens and British reggae band UB40, whose 1993 rendition topped charts once again, attesting to the song’s enduring appeal across genres and generations.
In the realm of popular culture, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” has transcended its origins in film and music, becoming a fixture in weddings and romantic moments worldwide. It is consistently chosen as a first dance song by couples, highlighting its emotional resonance and universality in expressing love’s timeless sentiments.
In conclusion, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” remains a cornerstone of Elvis Presley’s legacy and a testament to the enduring power of a heartfelt melody and poignant lyrics. Its ability to evoke deep emotions and capture the essence of love ensures its place as an eternal classic in the hearts of listeners everywhere.
Video
Lyrics
From “Blue Hawaii” ladies and gentleman
Wise men say
Only fools, only fools rush in
Oh, but I, but I, I can’t help falling in love with you
Shall I stay?
Would it be, would it be a sin?
If I can’t help falling in love with you
Like a river flows
Surely to the sea
Darling, so it goes
Some things, you know, are meant to be
Take my hand
Take my whole life too
For I can”t help falling in love with you
For I can”t help falling in love with you
Yeah