About the song
“Burning Love” is a remarkable song that stands out as a high point in Elvis Presley’s storied career, representing both a significant achievement and a nostalgic callback to his peak years in music. Written by Dennis Linde and originally recorded by Arthur Alexander earlier in 1972, the song found its most enduring expression in Presley’s version, which was released as a single on August 1, 1972.
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Burning Love” is notable for several reasons. It was the last major hit to grace the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 10 during Presley’s lifetime, peaking at No. 2 on October 28, 1972. Although it narrowly missed the top spot due to Chuck Berry’s “My Ding-a-Ling,” it was a definitive moment in Presley’s career. The track also reached No. 1 on Cashbox’s Top 40 Charts, cementing its status as a major success.
The recording of “Burning Love” took place at RCA’s Hollywood studios on March 28, 1972. The song featured a compelling electric guitar riff, which was overdubbed and played by Linde himself. The production of the track was further enhanced by a dynamic arrangement that included powerful instrumentation, such as electric guitars, drums, and backing vocals that contributed to its upbeat and infectious sound.
Elvis’s performance of “Burning Love” was highlighted in several high-profile productions, including the concert film *Elvis on Tour* and the iconic *Aloha from Hawaii* concert. Despite its popularity, Presley performed the song live relatively infrequently, with notable exceptions in 1975 when it was part of his setlist during many of his performances.
The song was featured on the album *Burning Love and Hits from His Movies, Volume 2*, released on November 1, 1972. Although the album’s subtitle suggested a collection of hits from Presley’s films, the title track was the only significant hit included.
Beyond its initial release, “Burning Love” has seen various revivals and remixes, including a new orchestral arrangement recorded in 2015 with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. The song also played a role in several cultural contexts, such as being used in the film *Elvis: The Movie* and appearing in soundtracks for various media, including Disney’s *Lilo & Stitch* and the video game *Homefront*.
The enduring appeal of “Burning Love” is a testament to Elvis Presley’s remarkable influence and the song’s catchy, timeless quality. It remains a celebrated piece of music that showcases Presley’s ability to infuse energy and emotion into every performance.
Video
Lyrics
Lord Almighty
Feel my temperature rising
Higher an’ higher
It’s burning through to my soul
Girl, girl, girl, girl
You gonna set me on fire
My brain is flaming
I don’t know which way to go, yeah
Your kisses lift me higher
Like the sweet song of a choir
You light my morning sky
With burning love
Ooh-ooh-ooh, I feel my temperature rising
Help me, I’m flaming
I must be a 109
Burning, burning, burning
And nothing can cool me, yeah
I just might turn into smoke but I feel fine
‘Cause your kisses lift me higher
Like a sweet song of a choir
And you light my morning sky
With burning love
It’s coming closer
The flames are now licking my body
Won’t you help me
I feel like I’m slipping away
It’s hard to breath
And my chest is a-heaving, mm
Lord, have mercy
I’m burning a hole where I lay, yeah
Your kisses lift me higher
Like the sweet song of a choir
You light my morning sky
With burning love
With burning love (a hunk, a hunk of burning love, ah)
I’m just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
A hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)
Just a hunk, a hunk of burning love (ah)