“It’s Now or Never” is one of Elvis Presley’s most famous songs, released in 1960 as a single. The song is actually an adaptation of the famous Italian song “O Sole Mio,” with new English lyrics written by Aaron Schroeder and Wally Gold. The melody of “O Sole Mio” was reworked to fit the new lyrics.
The song’s meaning is about seizing the moment and taking chances in love. The singer is telling his lover that they should be together now, because tomorrow may be too late. He is also saying that he is willing to give everything he has for her love.
The song’s lyrics are simple but effective. The chorus, “It’s now or never, come hold me tight, kiss me, my darling, be mine tonight”, is a passionate plea for love. The verses describe the pain that the singer is feeling as he waits for his lover to make a decision.
The title itself, “It’s Now or Never,” encapsulates the central theme of taking action before it’s too late. The narrator is expressing a desire to be with their love interest, and they’re encouraging the person to make a decision and not let the opportunity slip away.
Elvis’s rendition of “It’s Now or Never” is marked by his powerful and emotive vocals, which bring out the sense of urgency and passion in the lyrics. The song’s dramatic crescendos and Elvis’s heartfelt delivery contribute to the emotional impact of the track.
Lyrics
It’s now or never
Come hold me tight
Kiss me my darling
Be mine tonight
Tomorrow will be too late
It’s now or never
My love won’t wait
When I first saw you
With your smile so tender
My heart was captured
My soul surrendered
I spent a lifetime
Waiting for the right time
Now that you’re near
The time is here, at last
It’s now or never
Come hold me tight
Kiss me my darling
Be mine tonight
Tomorrow will be too late
It’s now or never
My love won’t wait
Just like a willow
We would cry an ocean
If we lost true love
And sweet devotion
Your lips excite me
Let your arms invite me
For who knows when
We’ll meet again this way
It’s now or never
Come hold me tight
Kiss me my darling
Be mine tonight
Tomorrow will be too late
It’s now or never
My love won’t wait
It’s now or never
My love won’t wait