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I’ll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin’) – Elvis Presley – 1956

About The Song

“I’ll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin’)” is a rock and roll ballad by Elvis Presley, released in 1956. While not as widely recognized as some of his other hits, the song showcases Presley’s versatility and early forays into different musical styles during his transformative years with Sun Records.

Five facts about “I’ll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin’)”:

  1. Original Recording: The song was originally written and recorded by Jimmy Wakely in 1943. Elvis Presley covered it in 1954 during his Sun Records sessions, contributing to the fusion of country, rhythm and blues, and rockabilly influences that characterized his early work.
  2. Sun Records Era: “I’ll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin’)” is part of the collection of songs that Elvis recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, under the guidance of producer Sam Phillips. These recordings are considered foundational in the development of rock and roll.
  3. Country and Rhythm and Blues Fusion: The song reflects the blending of country and rhythm and blues elements, a characteristic feature of Presley’s early music. This fusion played a crucial role in shaping the emerging rock and roll genre and setting the stage for Elvis’s later success.
  4. Less Commercial Success: While the song didn’t achieve the same commercial success as some of Elvis’s other hits from that era, it is recognized for its musical experimentation and hints at the diverse influences that would become more prominent in his later career.
  5. Cover Versions: “I’ll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin’)” has been covered by various artists over the years, showcasing its enduring appeal. Despite not reaching the commercial heights of some of Elvis’s more well-known songs, it remains a notable piece in the context of his early work and contributions to the evolution of popular music.

Video

Lyrics

I’ll never let you go, little darlin’
I’m so sorry, ’cause I made you cry
I’ll never let you go, ’cause I love you
So please don’t ever say good-bye

The stars would tumble down beside me
The moon would hang it’s head and cry
My arms would never hold another baby doll
If we should ever say good-bye

Well, I’ll never let you go
Because I love you, pretty baby
I’m so sorry ’cause I made you cry
I made you cry
Yeah, I’ll never let you go
‘Cause I love you, little baby
So please don’t ever say good-bye