Introduction
Elvis Presley’s “Any Day Now” isn’t one of his rock and roll classics, but it showcases a different side of the King’s musical persona. Recorded in 1969, the song arrived during a period where Presley was delving deeper into soulful ballads and blues influences.
The song itself wasn’t written by Presley. Songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Bob Hilliard penned “Any Day Now,” and it carries a melancholic tone. The lyrics paint a picture of a man anticipating the inevitable heartbreak of an impending goodbye. The singer compares his love to a “wild beautiful bird” about to take flight, a metaphor for the impending departure and the feeling of helplessness.
“Any Day Now” was released as the B-side to Presley’s hit single “In the Ghetto.” Despite not being the main attraction, the song gained a dedicated following. It showcased Presley’s remarkable vocal range, particularly in the drawn-out “oh oh oh” sections. The soulful delivery and the vulnerability in the lyrics resonated with fans, making “Any Day Now” a hidden gem within Presley’s vast catalog.
While not a chart-topping hit, “Any Day Now” has endured as a testament to Presley’s versatility. It serves as a reminder that the King of Rock and Roll could deliver a soulful ballad with just as much power and emotion as one of his electrifying rock anthems.