Introduction
“Please Don’t Stop Loving Me” is a heartfelt ballad performed by Elvis Presley, featured on the soundtrack of his 1966 film Frankie and Johnny. The song was written by Joy Byers, a frequent collaborator with Presley, known for crafting poignant and relatable lyrics.
The recording took place on May 13, 1965, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. Elvis’s vocal performance was laid over previously recorded instrumental tracks, reflecting his limited involvement in the production process for this particular song.
Upon its release in 1966, “Please Don’t Stop Loving Me” served as the B-side to the single “Frankie and Johnny.” Both tracks charted on the Billboard Hot 100, with “Please Don’t Stop Loving Me” reaching number 45 on April 23, 1966.
Musically, the song is characterized as a waltz and has drawn comparisons to the 1964 Eurovision-winning song “Non ho l’età (Per amarti)” by Gigliola Cinquetti, particularly in its verse melody.
In “Please Don’t Stop Loving Me,” Elvis delivers a poignant plea for enduring affection, with lyrics expressing a profound need for his partner’s love and presence. Lines such as “Please don’t stop loving me, you were born just to be in my arms” highlight the song’s emotional depth.
While not among Presley’s most commercially successful singles, “Please Don’t Stop Loving Me” remains a testament to his ability to convey deep emotion through music, offering listeners a glimpse into his versatility as an artist.