“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Elvis Presley’s “Any Way You Want Me” is a passionate declaration of unwavering devotion, a recurring theme throughout his early career. Released in 1956 as the B-side to “Love Me Tender,” it quickly became a fan favorite, showcasing Elvis’s raw vocal power and magnetic stage presence. Lyrically, the song is straightforward yet potent, with the narrator addressing his beloved and professing his absolute willingness to conform to her desires. Phrases like “Any way you want me, that’s how I’ll be” and “I’ll do anything you ask me to” leave no room for doubt about his commitment.
The song’s content highlights a deep, almost submissive, love. The narrator offers himself entirely, promising to change his behavior, his very essence, to please his partner. This sentiment, while perhaps viewed as outdated by some modern standards, resonated deeply with audiences in the 1950s, representing a fervent dedication that was both romantic and idealized. It speaks to a desire for complete harmony within a relationship, where one’s own identity is subsumed by the beloved’s wishes.
The significance of “Any Way You Want Me” lies not only in its lyrical content but also in its delivery. Elvis’s performance injects the song with an almost desperate sincerity. His vocals are laced with a yearning intensity, making the seemingly simple lyrics feel incredibly profound. This raw emotionality was a hallmark of his appeal, drawing listeners into the drama of the song. Furthermore, its placement as a B-side to “Love Me Tender” allowed it to ride on the coattails of a massive hit, exposing it to a vast audience and solidifying its place in Elvis’s early repertoire. It demonstrated his versatility, moving from the tender balladry of “Love Me Tender” to a more fervent, rock-and-roll-infused declaration of love. “Any Way You Want Me” remains a testament to Elvis’s enduring power to convey profound emotion, even in the simplest of terms, making it a significant piece in the tapestry of his iconic career.
Video
Lyrics
I’ll be a strong as a mountain,
Or weak as a willow tree,
Anyway you want me,
That’s how I will be.I’ll be a tame as a baby,
Or wild as the raging sea,
Anyway you want me,
That’s how I will be.
In your hand my heart is clay,
To take a mold as you may.
I’m what you make me, you’ve only to take me,
And in your arms I will stay.
I’ll be a fool or a wise man,
My darling you hold the key,
Yes, anyway you want me,
That’s how I will be,
I will be…