In 1972, Elvis Presley released what would become his final Top 10 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 — “Burning Love.” With its fiery energy, pounding rhythm, and soaring vocals, the song shot up the charts and became an instant classic. Fans were electrified. Radio stations played it on repeat. Yet behind the scenes, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself was far from impressed.
Surprisingly, Elvis hated “Burning Love.” Despite its massive popularity and enduring legacy, he rarely performed it live — and when he did, it was often half-hearted. But why would a global superstar dislike one of his biggest hits?
🔥 The Sound That Didn’t Fit
Elvis was in his late 30s when “Burning Love” was recorded. By then, his musical interests had evolved far beyond the hip-shaking rock of his early days. He was leaning heavily into ballads, gospel, and deeply emotional storytelling — not the fast-paced, fiery style of his youth. The song, originally written by Dennis Linde and first recorded by Arthur Alexander, didn’t align with Elvis’s personal taste or artistic direction.
He often referred to “Burning Love” as “just a rocker” and was reportedly frustrated by the way it was pushed on him by his management and label, who were desperate for another mainstream radio hit.
🎙️ Reluctance on Stage
Though it became a fan favorite, Elvis only performed “Burning Love” a handful of times during his live shows — and with visible reluctance. Footage shows him delivering it with far less passion than his gospel numbers or torch ballads like “Suspicious Minds” or “You Gave Me a Mountain.” It was clear his heart just wasn’t in it.
In his famous Aloha from Hawaii concert in 1973 — watched live via satellite by over a billion people — “Burning Love” made it into the setlist, but Elvis gave it a quick, punchy delivery and moved on. It never became a staple in his performances.
📻 A Legacy Larger Than His Opinion
Regardless of how Elvis felt, “Burning Love” became one of his most beloved hits. Its driving beat and unforgettable chorus captured the passion of a generation, and it has since been used in films, commercials, and even Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, introducing a new wave of young fans to Elvis’s music.
It’s a fascinating paradox — the King was burned out on “Burning Love,” but the world wasn’t. Sometimes, the audience embraces a piece of music even when the artist doesn’t.
🎧 Rediscover It for Yourself
Want to hear the hit that Elvis couldn’t stand?
