Elvis Presley: A Plea in “Don’t”
Background
Released in 1958, “Don’t” marked a departure from the high-octane, hip-shaking Elvis that had captured the nation’s attention. This was a ballad, a tender plea, a song that revealed a depth and vulnerability often obscured by the King’s charismatic public persona. Penned by the songwriting duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song is a masterclass in simplicity and emotional resonance.
“Don’t” is often overshadowed by Elvis’s more flamboyant hits, but it is a testament to his versatility as an artist. It is a song that reveals a side of Elvis that is rarely seen, a man capable of conveying deep emotional vulnerability with a power and authenticity that is simply breathtaking.
It is a reminder that beneath the glitz and glamour, there was a real person, a complex and multifaceted artist who was capable of touching the hearts of millions.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Don’t (Don’t) Don’t (Don’t)That’s what you sayEach time that I hold you this wayWhen I feel like this and I want to kiss youBaby, don’t say don’tleave my embraceFor here in my arms is your placeWhen the night grows cold and I want to hold youBaby, don’t say don’t (Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t)If you think that this is just a gameI’m playingIf you think that I don’t meanEvery word I’m sayingDon’t (Don’t) Don’t (Don’t)Don’t feel that wayI’m your love and yours I will stayThis you can believeI will never leave youHeaven knows I won’t(Don’t) Baby, don’t say don’t(Don’t, please, don’t)
That’s what you sayEach time that I hold you this wayWhen I feel like this and I want to kiss youBaby, don’t say don’tleave my embraceFor here in my arms is your placeWhen the night grows cold and I want to hold youBaby, don’t say don’t (Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t)Don’t (Don’t) Don’t (Don’t)That’s what you sayEach time that I hold you this wayWhen I feel like this and I want to kiss youBaby, don’t say don’tleave my embrace