When you think of Elvis Presley, your mind likely goes straight to his electrifying rock-and-roll hits, his seductive dance moves, and his larger-than-life presence. But beyond the glitzy jumpsuits and stadium-filling anthems, there’s a lesser-known treasure in his catalog—a song that reveals a softer, more vulnerable side of the King. That song is “Tomorrow Is a Long Time,” a haunting ballad written by none other than the legendary Bob Dylan, which not only became a favorite among fans but also earned Dylan’s deep admiration.
The Story Behind the Song
“Tomorrow Is a Long Time” was crafted by Bob Dylan in the early 1960s, a period known for his powerful, folk-driven exploration of longing, isolation, and heartache. Yet, despite its emotional weight, Dylan never included the song on any of his studio albums. Instead, his version first appeared in 1971 on Bob Dylan’s Greatest Hits Vol. II, taken from a live performance recorded at the 1963 Town Hall concert.
The song’s raw lyrics and mournful tone are a perfect fit for Dylan’s folk ethos, but it was Elvis who took this melancholic gem and made it his own in 1966, recording it during sessions for his Spinout album. Though the track wasn’t included in the final Spinout tracklist, it eventually saw the light of day on the Elvis (The ’68 Comeback Special) compilation and his 1971 album Elvis Now.
Elvis’s Soulful Interpretation
What makes Elvis’s version of “Tomorrow Is a Long Time” so striking is how it defies the typical rock-and-roll energy that defined much of his career. The track is slow, reflective, and stripped down—an acoustic guitar gently plucks its way through the track, leaving space for Elvis’s voice to shine. Unlike his high-energy hits, this song allows the King to dive deep into the vulnerability and yearning at the heart of Dylan’s lyrics.
The sparse arrangement and somber tempo create an intimate atmosphere, one that invites listeners to connect with the aching emotion in the song’s words. Elvis, known for his powerful vocal delivery, brings a tenderness to the track that few could match. His voice, rich with soulful longing, breathes new life into the lyrics, capturing the profound sense of yearning for a lost love.
Dylan’s Praise for Elvis
The emotional impact of Elvis’s interpretation of the song didn’t go unnoticed by its creator. Bob Dylan, a master of lyrical depth himself, expressed his admiration for Elvis’s rendition in a rare moment of praise:
“Elvis Presley recorded a song of mine. That’s the one recording I treasure the most.”
Dylan’s words speak volumes. For a songwriter known for his poetic brilliance, to single out Elvis’s version as his favorite recording is high praise indeed. Elvis had not only captured the song’s raw emotion but also transcended the folk genre, adding a layer of country-influenced soul that was uniquely his.
A New Dimension of Elvis’s Artistry
This track reveals a side of Elvis not often seen in his well-known rock-and-roll persona. The melancholy and simplicity of the song allowed him to showcase the full range of his vocal abilities, moving away from the showmanship of his usual hits and instead offering a delicate, poignant performance. It’s a masterclass in emotional delivery—a reminder that Elvis wasn’t just a pop culture icon, but a true artist capable of evoking deep feelings with his voice.
The song’s haunting quality also stands as a testament to Elvis’s ability to interpret music. His take on “Tomorrow Is a Long Time” is both deeply personal and universally relatable, making it a standout piece in his catalog of both hits and hidden gems.
A Legacy Cemented in Time
Although “Tomorrow Is a Long Time” wasn’t one of Elvis’s chart-topping singles, it has since earned its place as a beloved classic, especially among those who appreciate the subtler, more introspective aspects of his work. It represents a unique fusion of folk, country, and rock—genres that Elvis mastered and made his own throughout his career.
The track also highlights the unspoken bond between two musical titans—Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan. For Dylan, the journey of his song from his own pen to Elvis’s iconic voice marks a turning point in musical history. For Elvis, it shows his artistic versatility and ability to take on songs outside of his usual rock-and-roll wheelhouse.
In the end, “Tomorrow Is a Long Time” serves as a poignant reminder that Elvis was more than just the King of Rock—he was a multifaceted artist capable of conveying complex emotions with just a few simple notes. For fans looking to explore more of Elvis’s tender side, songs like “Long Black Limousine” from his From Elvis in Memphis album capture that same soulful, heartfelt essence.
Ultimately, this collaboration—though not a traditional one—between Dylan and Presley transcends time and genre, cementing their legacies as two of the most influential figures in music history.
