Introduction
“Burning Love” stands as one of Elvis Presley’s most electrifying tracks, marking a significant moment in his illustrious career. Originally penned by Dennis Linde and first recorded by Arthur Alexander, Elvis brought his rendition to life on March 28, 1972, at RCA’s Hollywood studios. Despite personal challenges during this period, including the dissolution of his marriage, Elvis delivered a performance brimming with energy, culminating in the memorable ad-libbed line, “a hunk, a hunk of burning love” .
Released as a single on August 1, 1972, with “It’s a Matter of Time” as its B-side, “Burning Love” quickly climbed the charts. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, only held back by Chuck Berry’s “My Ding-a-Ling,” and secured the top spot on the Cashbox chart . This track would become Elvis’s final Top 10 hit in the U.S., solidifying its place in music history.
Despite its success, Elvis seldom performed “Burning Love” live, though notable exceptions include his appearances in the concert film Elvis on Tour and the 1973 television special Aloha from Hawaii. The song’s enduring appeal led to its inclusion in various media, from the Cirque du Soleil show Viva Elvis to the animated film Lilo & Stitch.
In 2015, “Burning Love” experienced a renaissance with the release of If I Can Dream: Elvis Presley with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. This album featured reimagined versions of Elvis’s classics, blending his original vocals with new orchestral arrangements recorded at London’s Abbey Road Studios. The updated “Burning Love” retained its iconic guitar riffs and drum beats, enriched by a lush string backdrop that added depth to the track .
This fusion of rock and orchestral elements not only introduced Elvis’s music to a new generation but also showcased the timeless quality of his artistry. “Burning Love,” in both its original and reimagined forms, continues to ignite passion among listeners, affirming Elvis Presley’s enduring legacy as the King of Rock and Roll.