When Elvis Presley first sang “Faded Love” live in 1973, it felt like more than just a performance; it felt like a confession. His voice carried the weight of memory, longing and that quiet kind of sadness that sneaks in when the lights are low and the music slows down. This wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t fast. It was honest and that’s what made it unforgettable.
“Faded Love” is about exactly what it sounds like; love that once burned bright but now feels distant and cold. Originally written by Bob Wills and John Wills as a country waltz, Elvis gave it a tender, soulful spin. It’s not just the lyrics that make this song hit hard; it’s the way Elvis sings them, with soft edges and deep feeling.
Elvis Presley – Faded Love – 15 February 1973, Dinner Show (first time performed live)
In this first-ever live performance, Elvis keeps things simple but strong. The crowd is quiet, listening closely, maybe even holding their breath. With each note, Elvis lets a little more emotion through and it’s that slow build that pulls you in. This wasn’t the kind of performance that made people jump to their feet. Instead, it made them sit still. Think. Feel. Fans later described it as one of those moments where you could feel the room change—like everyone knew they were hearing something real.
After a song like “Faded Love”, Elvis often shifted to something just as emotional, but even more personal: “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.” Together, they create a double-punch of heartbreak that only The King could deliver. Put on your headphones, close your eyes, and let Elvis remind you how beautiful a faded love can still sound.
Elvis Presley – I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry (Aloha From Hawaii 1973)
This one is soft, stripped down, and soaked in sorrow. Elvis doesn’t over-sing—he just lets the pain come through, naturally and beautifully.
You’ll find performances like these on YouTube, often in remastered quality and rare uploads by dedicated fans. Look out for Facebook groups and Instagram accounts still sharing deep cuts and hidden gems from Elvis’s ’70s catalog.