Elvis Presley, also known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” was one of the most influential and successful musical artists of the 20th century. With his dynamic stage presence, smooth vocals, and unique blend of country, blues, and rockabilly music, Elvis captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Even decades after his death, his music continues to inspire and entertain people of all ages.
In this article, we will take a look at the top 20 best Elvis Presley songs of all time. From his early hits like “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Hound Dog” to his later ballads like “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” each song on this list showcases Elvis’s unparalleled talent and charisma. Whether you are a die-hard Elvis fan or simply love great music, this list is sure to have you tapping your feet and singing along to some of the most iconic songs in rock and roll history.
1. ‘Way Down’ (1976)
“Way Down” is a rock and roll song by Elvis Presley that was released in 1976, just a few months before his death. The song features a driving beat and catchy guitar riff that perfectly captures the energy and excitement of rock and roll music. Elvis’s smooth vocals add a layer of emotion and depth to the song, making it one of his most memorable and beloved hits. The lyrics of “Way Down” speak to the power of love and the joys of living life to the fullest, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who loves to rock out and have a good time. With its infectious melody and energetic performance, “Way Down” remains a classic example of Elvis Presley’s legendary musical talent and enduring popularity.
2. ‘Burning Love’ (1972)
“Burning Love” is a rock and roll song by Elvis Presley that was released in 1972. The song features a catchy guitar riff and upbeat tempo that perfectly capture the excitement and passion of a new romance. Elvis’s powerful vocals bring a sense of urgency and intensity to the song, making it one of his most popular hits. The lyrics of “Burning Love” speak to the thrill of falling in love and the fiery passion that comes with it. With its memorable chorus and infectious energy, “Burning Love” remains a beloved classic of the rock and roll genre. As one of Elvis’s most popular and enduring hits, it continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world, decades after its initial release.
3. ‘The Wonder of You’ (1970)
“The Wonder of You” is a ballad by Elvis Presley that was released in 1970. The song features a sweeping orchestral arrangement that perfectly complements Elvis’s smooth and powerful vocals. The lyrics of “The Wonder of You” speak to the beauty and magic of true love, and Elvis’s performance captures the emotion and sincerity of the message. The song has become one of Elvis’s most beloved ballads, and its enduring popularity is a testament to his musical talent and charisma. With its soaring melody and heartfelt lyrics, “The Wonder of You” remains a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
4. ‘Long Black Limousine’ (1969)
“Long Black Limousine” is a country soul song by Elvis Presley that was released in 1969. The song tells the story of a man who returns home after many years away, only to find that his former lover has moved on and married a wealthy man who can provide her with a life of luxury. Elvis’s emotive vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics create a powerful sense of longing and regret, capturing the bittersweet emotions of lost love and missed opportunities. With its blend of country and soul music, “Long Black Limousine” is a unique and memorable song that showcases Elvis’s versatility as a musician and his ability to convey deep emotion through his music. As one of his lesser-known hits, it remains a hidden gem in Elvis’s extensive catalog of classic songs.
5. ‘Suspicious Minds’ (1969)
“Suspicious Minds” is a rock and roll song by Elvis Presley that was released in 1969. The song features a memorable opening guitar riff and a driving rhythm section that perfectly capture the energy and excitement of the rock genre. Elvis’s powerful vocals and the song’s catchy melody make it one of his most iconic hits. The lyrics of “Suspicious Minds” speak to the difficulties of maintaining trust and honesty in a relationship, and the emotional turmoil that can result from suspicion and jealousy. With its powerful chorus and unforgettable performance by Elvis, “Suspicious Minds” remains a classic of the rock and roll genre, and one of Elvis’s most enduring and beloved hits. Decades after its initial release, it continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
6. ‘If I Can Dream’ (1968)
“If I Can Dream” is a powerful ballad by Elvis Presley that was released in 1968. The song was written in response to the social and political turmoil of the late 1960s, and it features powerful lyrics that speak to the hope for peace and unity in a divided world. Elvis’s emotive vocals and the song’s soaring melody create a sense of urgency and passion, making it one of his most memorable and moving performances. “If I Can Dream” has become an anthem of hope and inspiration, reminding listeners of the importance of coming together and striving for a better future. With its timeless message and enduring popularity, it remains one of Elvis’s most beloved and important songs, and a testament to his musical talent and cultural impact.
7. ‘Run On’ (1966)
“Run On” is a gospel song by Elvis Presley that was released in 1966. The song features a driving rhythm section and soaring vocal harmonies that perfectly capture the energy and excitement of the gospel genre. Elvis’s powerful vocals and the song’s catchy melody make it one of his most memorable performances. The lyrics of “Run On” speak to the importance of faith and perseverance, encouraging listeners to stay strong in the face of adversity and to never give up on their dreams. With its uplifting message and infectious rhythm, “Run On” is a testament to Elvis’s versatility as a musician and his ability to connect with listeners across genres and generations. As a powerful example of his gospel work, it remains a beloved song in his extensive catalog of classic hits.
8. ‘Viva Las Vegas’ (1963)
“Viva Las Vegas” is a rock and roll song by Elvis Presley that was released in 1963 as part of the soundtrack for the film of the same name. The song features a driving rhythm section and catchy guitar riffs that perfectly capture the excitement and energy of the Las Vegas nightlife. Elvis’s powerful vocals and the song’s upbeat melody make it one of his most memorable and enduring hits. The lyrics of “Viva Las Vegas” speak to the hedonistic and carefree spirit of the city, encouraging listeners to let loose and have a good time. With its infectious rhythm and memorable chorus, “Viva Las Vegas” has become an iconic anthem of the city itself, and remains one of Elvis’s most beloved and recognizable songs.
9. ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ (1961)
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a romantic ballad by Elvis Presley that was released in 1961. The song features a gentle melody and Elvis’s tender, heartfelt vocals that perfectly capture the joy and vulnerability of falling in love. The lyrics of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” speak to the all-consuming nature of love, and the feeling of being swept away by its power. With its memorable melody and touching lyrics, the song has become one of Elvis’s most enduring and beloved hits, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Whether played at weddings, romantic occasions, or simply as a reminder of the power of love, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” remains a timeless classic that continues to capture the hearts of listeners today.
10. ‘Reconsider Baby’ (1960)
“Reconsider Baby” is a blues song by Elvis Presley that was recorded in 1954 and released in 1960. The song features a slow, sultry rhythm and Elvis’s gritty, soulful vocals that perfectly capture the raw emotion and pain of a broken heart. The lyrics of “Reconsider Baby” speak to the feelings of regret and desperation that can come with a failed relationship, and the longing for a second chance. With its powerful vocals, bluesy guitar riffs, and emotionally charged lyrics, “Reconsider Baby” is a standout track in Elvis’s discography, and remains one of his most beloved and enduring songs. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and stands as a testament to Elvis’s versatility and range as a performer.
11. ‘One Night With You’ (1957)
“One Night With You” is a rock and roll song by Elvis Presley that was released in 1958. The song features a driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and Elvis’s signature swagger and charisma. With its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics, “One Night With You” is a classic example of Elvis’s early rock and roll sound, which was characterized by its energy, youthfulness, and rebellious spirit. The song was a hit for Elvis, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and has since become a staple of his live performances. With its infectious melody and infectious energy, “One Night With You” remains one of Elvis’s most popular and beloved songs, and stands as a testament to his enduring legacy as a pioneer of rock and roll music.
12. ‘Santa Claus Is Back in Town’ (1957)
“Santa Claus Is Back in Town” is a classic Christmas song performed by Elvis Presley and released in 1957. The song features Elvis’s smooth and sultry vocals over a catchy bluesy melody, complete with jingle bells and a horn section. With its playful lyrics about Santa Claus coming to town and bringing joy to all the boys and girls, “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” captures the festive spirit of the holiday season. The song was an instant hit and has since become a staple of Christmas playlists around the world. With its timeless appeal and Elvis’s unmistakable charm, “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” remains a beloved holiday classic that is sure to put a smile on the faces of listeners young and old.
13. ‘Jailhouse Rock’ (1957)
“Jailhouse Rock” is a classic rock and roll song by Elvis Presley, released in 1957. The song is known for its iconic opening guitar riff and catchy chorus, which became an instant hit and has since become a staple of rock and roll. The lyrics describe a party in a jailhouse, where the prisoners are dancing and singing to the beat of the music. The song was featured in the movie of the same name, where Elvis Presley played a young man who is sent to prison for manslaughter and becomes a rock and roll sensation. “Jailhouse Rock” has been covered by numerous artists over the years and is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time.
14. ‘(There’ll Be) Peace in the Valley (for Me)’ (1957)
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Peace in the Valley” is a soulful and inspiring gospel song that brings a message of hope and comfort to listeners. Released in 1957, the song features Presley’s powerful vocals backed by a choir, delivering a stirring performance that touches the hearts of all who hear it. The song speaks of a peaceful world that will one day come, where love reigns supreme and there is no more pain or sorrow. Presley’s rendition of “Peace in the Valley” is a testament to his remarkable range as an artist, showcasing his ability to deliver heartfelt performances across a variety of genres. The song remains a beloved classic today, continuing to inspire and uplift listeners with its message of hope and faith.
15. ‘Love Me Tender’ (1956)
“Love Me Tender” is a ballad recorded by Elvis Presley in 1956, which became an instant hit and became one of his most iconic songs. It was composed by Ken Darby, using the melody of the Civil War song “Aura Lee,” and the lyrics were written by Elvis Presley himself, with the pseudonym “Ken Darby” used for credit. The song was featured in Elvis’ first film, also titled “Love Me Tender.” The song is about a love that is pure and innocent and its beauty and simplicity helped it to become an enduring classic. Presley’s smooth, velvety voice and emotional delivery, coupled with the gentle acoustic guitar accompaniment, helped to make the song a timeless classic and cemented Elvis Presley’s place in music history.
16. ‘Hound Dog’ (1956)
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Hound Dog” is a high-energy, rock and roll classic that has become a defining song of the genre. Released in 1956, it features Elvis’ distinctive voice backed by a raucous, driving beat and the iconic guitar riff. The lyrics describe a man who has been wronged by his lover and warn her that she will be sorry when he leaves her for good. The song’s irresistible rhythm and catchy chorus have made it a favorite for generations of fans, and it remains one of Elvis’ most popular and enduring hits. In addition to its musical influence, “Hound Dog” also played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry, as Elvis’ version brought the song to a wider, more mainstream audience.
17. ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ (1956)
“Heartbreak Hotel” is a classic rock and roll song released by Elvis Presley in 1956. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a lonely man who is searching for a place to heal his broken heart. With its moody, blues-inspired melody and lyrics that perfectly capture the pain of heartbreak, “Heartbreak Hotel” is widely regarded as one of Presley’s most iconic songs. The track features a distinctive drum intro and memorable guitar riff, both of which have become instantly recognizable to music fans around the world. “Heartbreak Hotel” was a major hit for Presley, topping the charts in the US and helping to launch his career as a music superstar.
18. ‘Mystery Train’ (1955)
“Mystery Train” is a blues song written and recorded by Junior Parker in 1953, but it was Elvis Presley’s 1955 version that made it famous. The song’s haunting sound and melancholic lyrics tell the story of a man who takes a train ride, but doesn’t know where he’s going or what he’ll find when he gets there. Presley’s version features a distinctive rockabilly beat and a raw, emotional vocal performance that captures the song’s sense of uncertainty and yearning. “Mystery Train” is a classic example of the type of music that helped launch the rock ‘n’ roll revolution, and it remains a favorite among Elvis Presley fans to this day.
19. ‘Baby, Let’s Play House’ (1955)
“Baby, Let’s Play House” is a song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1955. The track was originally written by Arthur Gunter, but it was Presley’s rendition that turned it into a hit. The song features Presley’s signature rockabilly sound, with a driving rhythm and a guitar solo that showcases the singer’s musical talent. The lyrics are typical of the genre, with a playful tone and a focus on romance and the thrill of young love. The song became a success on the country and pop charts, helping to establish Presley as a rising star in the music industry. “Baby, Let’s Play House” remains a beloved classic of early rock and roll and a testament to Presley’s influence on the genre.
20. ‘That’s All Right’ (1954)
“That’s All Right” was Elvis Presley’s first single, released in 1954, and it is often considered the birth of rock and roll. The song is a cover of Arthur Crudup’s original blues song and Elvis’s version features a fast-paced rhythm and his signature rockabilly sound, with the use of his electric guitar and Scotty Moore’s lead guitar. Elvis’s unique vocal style and energetic performance of the song helped to create a new sound that would become hugely influential in the world of music. The song was a hit and helped to launch Elvis’s career, earning him a place in music history and cementing his position as the “King of Rock and Roll.”
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
