Elvis Presley, the iconic King of Rock and Roll, gifted the world with a plethora of timeless hits throughout his career. One such gem is the soulful ballad Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be), released on his album Elvis’ Golden Records in 1958. This lesser-known track showcases Presley’s versatility as a performer and his ability to evoke emotion through his powerful vocals. Join us as we delve deeper into the meaning behind the lyrics of this classic song, examining its themes and influences to gain a better understanding of its impact on music history. Let’s explore the nuances of Any Way You Want Me and discover the layers of meaning that lie within Elvis Presley’s heartfelt rendition.
Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 1:
The main theme of this verse is unconditional love and devotion. The artist expresses a willingness to conform to their lover’s desires, regardless of personal discomfort or sacrifice. The metaphor of being a prisoner alludes to being bound by love, while the simile like a little soldier emphasizes loyalty and obedience.
The repetition of any way you want me emphasizes the artist’s willingness to adapt and please their partner, highlighting the selfless nature of their love. This verse sets the tone for the rest of the song, showcasing a deep sense of dedication and submission in the relationship.
Verse 2:
In this verse, the artist continues to proclaim their unwavering commitment to their lover, using imagery of being at their beck and call. The repetition of any way you want me further underscores the artist’s willingness to comply with their partner’s wishes.
The use of the phrase make me do anything suggests a desire to fulfill their partner’s every whim, regardless of personal boundaries or desires. This verse reinforces the theme of sacrifice and devotion present throughout the song.
Overall Meaning:
The collective meaning of Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be) conveys a sense of selflessness and sacrifice in love. The artist is willing to adapt, change, and fulfill their partner’s desires without hesitation, embodying a deep sense of devotion and loyalty. The repetition of the titular line emphasizes the depth of their commitment, creating a narrative of unconditional love and dedication.
Through the verses, Elvis Presley communicates a message of putting one’s partner’s needs above their own, showcasing the power of love to transcend personal boundaries and comfort zones. The song’s overall theme revolves around the idea of selflessness and surrender in relationships, highlighting the lengths one is willing to go for the person they love.
Chorus Analysis
Introduce the chorus
The chorus of Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be) by Elvis Presley goes:
If you want me to love you, baby, I will, that’s how I will be
And don’t you know I will, until the stars no longer shine
Until the Heavens burst and the words don’t rhyme
And I know when I die, you’ll be on my mind
Central theme or message
The chorus conveys a message of unconditional love and devotion. It speaks to the singer’s willingness to love their partner no matter what, even beyond the constraints of time and space. The repeated phrase that’s how I will be emphasizes the singer’s unwavering commitment to their loved one.
Relationship between the chorus and verses
The chorus reinforces the themes of love and dedication that are also present in the verses. It serves as a powerful declaration of the singer’s feelings and acts as a resolution to the emotional journey depicted in the preceding verses.
Overall significance of the chorus
The chorus is essential in conveying the song’s central theme of undying love. Its repetition and emotional resonance make it memorable and impactful for listeners. It effectively communicates the artist’s message of unwavering devotion, resonating with those who have experienced deep love in their own lives.
Cultural Context and Influences
Understanding the cultural context and influences behind a song can provide deeper insights into its meaning and significance. In the case of Elvis Presley’s ‘Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be),’ several cultural, historical, and personal influences can be identified that shaped the creation of this iconic song.
Explore the Cultural Influences
During the 1950s, the time when this song was released, America was undergoing significant social changes. The rise of the youth culture and the beginning of the civil rights movement were reflected in the music of the era. ‘Any Way You Want Me’ captures the spirit of rebellion and individualism that characterized this period, as it speaks to the idea of unconditional love and acceptance.
Analyze the Historical Influences
Elvis Presley, known as the King of Rock and Roll, was deeply influenced by the blues and gospel music of the African American community. This influence can be heard in the soulful delivery of ‘Any Way You Want Me,’ which pays homage to the musical traditions that shaped Presley’s own style.
Discuss Personal Influences
It is believed that the songwriter Aaron Schroeder drew inspiration from his own experiences of love and desire when penning the lyrics to ‘Any Way You Want Me.’ This personal touch adds authenticity and emotional depth to the song, making it resonate with listeners on a personal level.
By synthesizing the cultural, historical, and personal influences behind ‘Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be),’ one can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the song’s meaning and significance. It is through this lens that we can truly appreciate the lasting impact and relevance of Elvis Presley’s music, and how it continues to resonate with audiences today.
The Message of Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be) by Elvis Presley
In conclusion, the song Any Way You Want Me (That’s How I Will Be) by Elvis Presley showcases the unconditional love and devotion that one person can feel for another. Through its poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery, the song conveys a willingness to go to any lengths to make the one you love happy, even if it means sacrificing your own desires and preferences. Elvis’s soulful vocals bring out the emotions of the lyrics, making the listener truly feel the depth of the sentiment behind the words. Overall, this classic track stands as a testament to the power of love and selflessness, resonating with listeners of all ages and continuing to captivate audiences around the world.