Elvis Presley Channels Hank Williams In Heart-Shattering ‘I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry’

HDElvisPresleyHD / YouTube

Is there anything more incredible then one music icon honoring another? In part of his “Aloha From Hawaii” special, Elvis Presley channeled country music legend Hank Williams Sr. for a heart-shattering performance of “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry”.

“I’d like to sing a song that is probably the saddest song I’ve ever heard,” said Presley prior to his performance. 

After taking a moment to wipe his eyes, The King flawlessly rolled into his performance of the country ballad. Taking a heart-wrenching approach to Williams’ classic, emotion poured through Presley throughout his entire performance, ending with his signature line, “Thank you, thank you very much.

“Aloha From Hawaii” was a 1973 concert headlined by Presley and filmed in Honolulu, Hawaii. The event was aired in over 40 countries across Asia and Europe with viewing figures ranging from 1 to 1.5 billion. 

“I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” was recorded by Williams’ in 1949, written with the initial intention of it being spoken rather than sung. The song has transcended both time and genre, becoming an iconic anthem for the heartbroken wrecked by loneliness. 

You can watch Elvis Presley’s rendition below. 

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About the Author

Manly Bryant

Throughout his over a decade-long career at Country Rebel, Manly Bryant has written thousands of articles, managed countless social media posts, connected with many country music stars in person, and documented many of the most iconic moments in country music history. Whether he’s covering a sold-out stadium show or spotlighting an up-and-coming artist, Manly brings…

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