The Classic Duet
Truth be told, many of us would certainly love to see two legends perform together in one stage. In fact, if they were to stage a concert, it would be jam-packed. That is for sure! Let us go back to the time when two of the legends came together and created a legendary duet.
On May 12, 1960, Grammy awardee Frank Sinatra invited the King of Rock & Roll Elvis Presley on his show, The Frank Sinatra Show. Both artists performed one of their greatest hits, “Love Me Tender” for Presley while “Witchcraft” for Sinatra. It was a spectacular performance coming from two of the greatest entertainers of all time. The baritone vocals of Presley combined with the smooth and soothing voice of Sinatra simply created a gift from heaven. It was impeccably one of the greatest things that have happened on television.
WATCH: Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra perform “Love Me Tender” and “Witchcraft” together at The Frank Sinatra Show on May 12, 1960.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YQeWHg-Ft4
About the Songs
“Love Me Tender”
Released in 1956, “Love Me Tender” was recorded by the King of Rock & Roll Elvis Presley. It was later published by Elvis Presley Music from the 20th Century Fox film of the same name. Under the pseudonym, Vera Matson, American composer and lyricist Ken Darby takes the credit of writing its lyrics while American musician and composer George R. Poulton composed its music. In addition, record producers Ernie Oelhrich and Thorne Norgar produced the song for RCA Victor records.
Furthermore, “Love Me Tender” stormed the charts in 1956. Interestingly, it went to no. 1 in four Billboard charts in the United States namely, Hot 100, Best Sellers in Stores, Most Played by Jockeys, and Most Played in Jukeboxes.
To note, the song was originally adapted from the tune of “Aura Lee,” an American Civil War ballad about a maiden.
Love me tender
Love me sweet
Never let me go
You have made my life complete
And I love you soLove me tender
Love me true
All my dreams fulfilled
For my darlin’ I love you
And I always will
“Witchcraft”
A popular song in 1957, “Witchcraft” was recorded and released as a single by American singer, actor, and producer Frank Sinatra. The music was composed by American composer and songwriter Cy Coleman, and the lyrics were penned by American lyricist Carolyn Leigh. Meanwhile, American composer, arranger, musician, and producer Dave Cavanaugh produced this three-minute song for Capitol Record, Inc.
Spending sixteen weeks on the charts, “Witchcraft” peaked at no. 6 in the United States. In addition, at the 1st Grammy Awards, Frank Sinatra was nominated with six Grammy awards. His recording of “Witchcraft” was nominated for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
Those fingers in my hair
That sly come-hither stare
That strips my conscience bare
It’s witchcraftAnd I’ve got no defense for it
The heat is too intense for it
What good would common sense for it do?
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Tags
Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Love me Tender, Witchcraft