Introduction
In the world of music, stories of admiration between legends always hold a special allure. They reveal that even the biggest stars have their own idols. One of the most memorable and heartwarming stories is the deep appreciation that the “King of Rock and Roll,” Elvis Presley, held for the sweet voice of Anne Murray from Canada.
Anne Murray – Canada’s “Snowbird”
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Anne Murray emerged as a sensation with her smooth, warm, and emotionally resonant contralto voice. Her song “Snowbird” (1970) became an international hit, taking her name beyond Canadian borders and capturing the hearts of millions of music lovers worldwide. Her style was a delicate blend of pop, country, and adult contemporary – gentle, profound, and deeply touching.
Admiration from a King
What many might not know is that one of her biggest fans, and perhaps one of the most surprising, was Elvis Presley himself.
At the time, Elvis was an unshakable icon, the “King” of Rock and Roll with millions of devoted fans. Yet, amidst his own vibrant and powerful sounds, Elvis found solace and connection in the voice of Anne Murray. Numerous accounts and stories from those close to Elvis recount that he greatly admired her. He even publicly considered her one of his favorite female singers.
For Elvis, Anne Murray’s voice possessed a rare purity and sincerity. It was an invaluable compliment, coming from an artist who had defined an entire era of music.
The Ultimate Compliment: Recording Her Song
Elvis’s admiration wasn’t limited to words alone. His actions provided the most compelling evidence of the respect he had for Anne Murray’s talent. Elvis Presley decided to record his own version of her biggest hit, “Snowbird.”
Imagine this: the “King of Rock and Roll” taking time in the studio to interpret a gentle pop/country song by a Canadian female vocalist. This wasn’t just casual appreciation; it was a profound acknowledgment of talent at the highest level. For an artist of Elvis’s stature to cover your song is considered one of the most genuine and ultimate compliments a musician can give to a peer.
Elvis’s version of “Snowbird,” though unreleased officially for a long time, remains a vibrant testament to how deeply Anne Murray’s voice and melody resonated with him.
The Legacy of Recognition
Being so highly regarded by a global music icon like Elvis Presley is an undeniable stamp of approval on Anne Murray’s talent. It confirms that the appeal of her voice had the power to transcend genres and styles.
This story is not just a beautiful anecdote in Anne Murray’s career but also a wonderful reminder of the power of music. Music can connect kindred spirits, no matter who they are or where they come from – whether it’s a Canadian “Snowbird” or the “King of Rock and Roll” of the world.
The next time you listen to the songs of Anne Murray, remember that her incredible voice once captivated the heart of a king.