Elvis Presley’s “Heart of Rome” was recorded on January 21, 1963, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. It was written by Joy Byers and Fred Wise, and was released as a single on March 25, 1963. The song reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 1 on the Cashbox Top 100 Singles chart.
Presley had heard the song while watching the Dean Martin Show, and he immediately liked it. He asked his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, to get him the rights to the song, and Parker was able to secure them.
Presley recorded the song with his usual backing band, which included Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums. The song was produced by Felton Jarvis.
“Heart of Rome” is a ballad about a man who is singing to his lover in Rome. He tells her that she is the heart of the city and that he loves her more than anything in the world.
The song was a hit in the United States and around the world. It was particularly popular in Italy, where it reached number 1 on the charts.
“Heart of Rome” has been covered by many artists over the years, including Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Tom Jones. It is still one of Presley’s most popular songs today.
Introduction to Elvis Presley’s “Heart of Rome”
Elvis Presley’s “Heart of Rome” is a beautiful ballad about love and passion. The song is set in the city of Rome, and Presley’s vocals are full of emotion as he sings about his love for the woman he is with.
The song begins with a simple guitar intro, and then Presley’s voice comes in, singing the first verse:
As the sun goes down behind the hills of Rome I hold you close and feel your heart beat And as the night begins to softly fall I whisper words of love to you
Presley’s voice is soft and gentle in the first verse, but it builds in intensity as the song progresses. He sings about how his love for the woman he is with is as passionate as the city of Rome itself.
My love for you is like the heart of Rome It’s ancient and it’s strong And like the city, it will never die
The chorus of the song is particularly powerful, with Presley singing about how his love for the woman he is with is eternal.
My love for you is like the heart of Rome It’s ancient and it’s strong And like the city, it will never die
The song ends with a repeat of the chorus, and then Presley’s voice fades out.
“Heart of Rome” is a beautiful and timeless ballad about love and passion. It is one of Presley’s most popular songs for a reason, and it is sure to continue to be enjoyed by fans for many years to come.
In addition to the history and introduction above, here are some additional details about the song:
- “Heart of Rome” was written in the style of a traditional Italian ballad.
- The song was recorded during the same sessions as Presley’s hit single, “Return to Sender.”
- “Heart of Rome” was released as a single on March 25, 1963.
- The song reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 1 on the Cashbox Top 100 Singles chart.
- “Heart of Rome” was performed live by Presley during his 1963 engagement at the International Hotel in Las Vegas.
“Heart of Rome” is a beautiful and classic ballad that is sure to please fans of Elvis Presley and Italian music alike.
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Lyrics
In a little while you’re leavin’
Starting on the journey home
Soon I’ll be alone, the one who loves you
La la la la la, somewhere in the heart of RomeI’ll make a wish in every fountain
Say a prayer that you’ll return
Minutes I’ll be counting
May the fire of love still burn
I’ll keep your picture by my pillow
And pretend I’m not alone
Make believe that you are with me
La la la la la, in the heart of RomeSuddenly the tears are falling
As we hear the whistle blow
Hold me very close before you leave me
La la la la la, somewhere in the heart of RomeI’ll make a wish in every fountain
Say a prayer that you’ll return
Minutes I’ll be counting
May the fire of love still burn
I’ll keep your picture by my pillow
And pretend I’m not alone
Make believe that you are with me
La la la la la, in the heart of RomeI’ll make a wish in every fountain
Say a prayer that you’ll return
Minutes I’ll be counting
May the fire of love still burn
I’ll keep your picture by my pillow
And pretend I’m not alone
Make believe that you are with me
La la la la la, in the heart of Rome