Introduction:
My Boy, released in 1974, bukanlah (bukanlah – Indonesian for “is not”) a typical Elvis Presley song. Recorded during his comeback era after a period focusing on Hollywood films, My Boy showcases a different side of the King of Rock and Roll. While still maintaining his powerful vocals, the song is a sentimental ballad that departs from his earlier rock and roll roots.
Composed by French songwriters Jean-Pierre Bourtayre and Claude François, My Boy was originally titled “Parce que je t’aime, mon enfant” (“Because I Love You, My Child”) The English lyrics were penned by Phil Coulter and Bill Martin. Elvis’s recording appeared on his 1974 album Good Times and was released as a single in 1975. While not topping the charts like some of his earlier hits, My Boy still achieved a respectable No. 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It was more successful in the UK, reaching No. 9.
My Boy tells the story of a father singing to his young son, presumably at bedtime. The lyrics express the father’s deep love for his child and his hope for a brighter future. However, there’s a hint of sadness in the song, as the father contemplates a troubled relationship and the sacrifices he may have to make for his son’s sake.
My Boy‘s genre is a departure from Presley’s earlier rock and roll sound. It leans more towards adult contemporary, a genre that gained popularity in the 1970s and featured softer vocals and more introspective themes. This shift reflected the changing musical tastes of the era and Presley’s own maturation as an artist.
The producer for Good Times was Felton Jarvis, who had previously worked with Presley on his 1969 album From Elvis in Memphis. Jarvis is credited with helping Presley return to his roots and revitalize his career in the early 1970s. Good Times was one of several successful albums Presley released during this period, and My Boy stands out as a ballad that showcases his versatility and his ability to connect with audiences on a more emotional level.
While not his most famous song, My Boy holds a special place in the hearts of many Elvis fans. It demonstrates his growth as a singer and his willingness to explore different musical styles. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Presley’s lasting impact on popular music.
Video:
Lyrics:
You’re sleeping son, I knowBut really, this can’t waitI wanted to explainBefore it gets too lateFor your mother and meLove has finally diedThis is no happy homeBut God knows how I’ve triedBecause you’re all I have, my boyYou are my life, my pride, my joyAnd if I stay, I stay because of you, my boyI know it’s hard to understandWhy did we ever start?We’re more like strangers nowEach acting out a partI have laughed, I have criedI’ve lost every gameTaken all I can takeBut I’ll stay here just the sameBecause you’re all I have, my boyYou are my life, my pride, my joyAnd if I stay, I stay because of you, my boySleep on, you haven’t heard a wordPerhaps it’s just as wellWhy spoil your little dreamsWhy put you through the hellLife is no fairy taleAs one day you will knowBut now you’re just a childI’ll stay here and watch you growBecause you’re all I have, my boyYou are my life, my pride, my joyAnd if I stay, I stay because of you, my boyBecause you’re all I have, my boyYou are my life, my pride, my joyAnd if I stay, I stay because of you, my boyYeah, because you’re all I have, my boyYou are my life, my pride, my joyAnd if I stay, I stay because of you, my boyOh, because you’re all I have