“Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a melody that resonates across generations, instantly recognizable and deeply romantic. Made iconic by Elvis Presley in the 1961 film Blue Hawaii, this timeless ballad has become a staple at weddings and a beloved love song worldwide. But who exactly is responsible for writing this enduring hit?
While Elvis Presley’s performance cemented its place in music history, the songwriting credits for “Can’t Help Falling in Love” go to Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore, and George David Weiss. This talented trio crafted the English lyrics and arrangement that transformed a classic French tune into the global phenomenon we know today. Their names might not be as instantly recognizable as Elvis, but their contribution to music is undeniable through this song alone.
However, the story doesn’t begin with Peretti, Creatore, and Weiss. The melody itself has roots stretching back nearly two centuries earlier to a French romance called “Plaisir d’Amour.” Composed in 1784 by Jean-Paul-Egide Martini, “Plaisir d’Amour” is a poignant song, though its original French lyrics explore the bittersweet nature of love, contrasting the fleeting joy with the enduring pain it can bring. This melancholic beauty provided the foundation upon which “Can’t Help Falling in Love” was built.
Elvis Presley’s rendition catapulted “Can’t Help Falling in Love” to international fame. Reaching number one in the UK charts for four weeks in 1962 and peaking at number two in the U.S. Billboard Top 100, the song quickly became synonymous with Elvis. Throughout his career, Elvis embraced the song, making it a signature piece in his concerts, often as the closing number. It featured in his ’68 Comeback Special and poignantly, was the final song he ever performed live in concert in 1977.
The song’s appeal continued to transcend generations. In 1993, UB40’s reggae-infused version, titled “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love,” topped the U.S. Billboard charts for seven weeks, introducing the classic to a new audience. Further solidifying its cross-generational appeal, A-Teens released a pop version in 2002 for the Disney movie Lilo & Stitch. This version connected with an even younger demographic, ensuring “Can’t Help Falling in Love” remains relevant for years to come.
From its origins as the French “Plaisir d’Amour” to its transformation by Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore, and George David Weiss, and its iconic performances by Elvis Presley and subsequent artists, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” stands as a testament to the enduring power of a beautifully written melody and lyrics that speak to the universal experience of love. It’s a song whose magic continues to captivate hearts, proving its place as an all-time classic.
