Only the Strong Survive – Elvis Presley

About The Song

“Only the Strong Survive” is a soulful anthem by Elvis Presley that exudes resilience and determination. Released in 1969 as part of the album “From Elvis in Memphis,” the song features Presley’s robust vocals and a compelling arrangement, reflecting both his musical versatility and the broader cultural shifts in music during that era.

Facts:

Songwriters: “Only the Strong Survive” was written by Jerry Butler, Kenny Gamble, and Leon Huff. Originally recorded by Jerry Butler, Elvis Presley’s rendition brought a distinctive touch to the song, transforming it into a powerful statement of survival.
Chart Success: Although “Only the Strong Survive” was not released as a single, it gained popularity and became a significant track from the “From Elvis in Memphis” album. The LP itself performed well on the charts, reaching No. 13 on the Billboard 200.
Soulful Arrangement: The song is notable for its soulful arrangement, featuring a brass section and dynamic instrumentation. Elvis’s delivery captures the essence of the lyrics, conveying a sense of determination and strength in the face of challenges.
Elvis’s Memphis Sessions: “Only the Strong Survive” is part of the recordings that Elvis Presley made during his sessions at American Sound Studio in Memphis. These sessions were a pivotal part of his late 1960s comeback and marked a return to his roots in rock, soul, and country music.
Cover Versions: The song has been covered by various artists over the years, showcasing its enduring appeal. Elvis Presley’s version remains one of the most recognized and powerful interpretations, contributing to the song’s lasting legacy in both the soul and pop music genres.

Video

Lyrics

I remember my first love affair
Somehow or another, the whole darn thing went wrong
My mamma had some great advice
So I thought I’d put it into words of this song
I can still hear her sayin’ it

“Boy, oh, I see you’re sittin’ out there all alone
Cryin’ your eyes out ’cause the woman that you love has gone
Oh, there’s gonna be, there’s gonna be
A whole lot of trouble in your life
Oh, so listen to me get up off your knees
‘Cause only the strong survive”
That’s what she said, “Only the strong survive
Only the strong survive
Oh, you’ve got to be strong, you’d better hold on
Don’t go all around with your head hung down”

Well, I wouldn’t let that little girl
No, I wouldn’t let her know that she made me feel like a clown
There’s a whole lot a girls lookin’ for a good man like you
Oh, but you’ll never meet ’em if you give up now
And say your life is through
And she said, “Only the strong survive, only the strong survive
Oh, you’ve got to be a man, you’ve got to take a stand”

Boy
Boy
Oh, boy

Only the strong survive, only the strong survive
Well, you’ve got to be strong, you’d better hold on
‘Cause only the strong survive

Only the strong survive, only the strong survive
Well, you’ve got to be a man, you’ve got to take a stand
‘Cause only the strong survive

Only the strong survive
Only the strong survive
Only the strong survive
Only the strong survive
Only the strong survive