In an electrifying blast from the past, Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret delivered one of the most unforgettable duets of the 1960s with the song “The Lady Loves Me”, featured in the iconic 1964 movie “Viva Las Vegas.” Fans and historians alike have long been intrigued by the fiery chemistry these two stars shared—not just on screen, but behind the scenes as well.
The beginning of 1963 found Elvis juggling a hectic schedule, yet remarkably, he still managed precious moments with Priscilla Presley. Her influence on Elvis was profound; it softened his demeanor and even altered his previously freewheeling romantic entanglements. He distanced himself from longtime companion Anita Wood, signaling a new seriousness grounded in Priscilla’s gentle nature. But fate had other plans when Elvis entered the recording studio to prepare for his film projects—one being the smash hit “Fun in Acapulco,” where he recorded popular tracks including his beloved Bossa Nova.
Amidst filming rumors of an affair with co-star Ursula Andress swirled, but the real headline-grabber was the sizzling connection with Ann-Margret, the stunning Swedish immigrant and Hollywood rising star. The duo first met in early July 1963 at Radio Recorders studios. The press introduced them as the stars of MGM’s “Viva Las Vegas,” amplifying the spotlight on what would become a legendary partnership. At 28, Elvis was a seasoned film veteran, while 22-year-old Ann-Margret’s career was exploding post her breakout role in “Bye Bye Birdie.”
Before cameras rolled, the pair recorded several songs separately on July 9-10. Then, on July 11, they entered the studio together to harmonize on three duets: “The Lady Loves Me,” “You’re the Boss,” and “Today, Tomorrow, and Forever.” Ann-Margret recalls the playful studio atmosphere where, at the cue to start singing, she nervously asked Elvis, “What do I do?” His response, “You give me a cue,” has since become a cherished anecdote among fans.
But it’s the intimate and audibly candid moments that intrigue fans the most. During the recording of “The Lady Loves Me,” Ann-Margret’s breathy, close-quarters singing—especially as she crooned, “I’d rather kiss a rattlesnake”—leaves Presley slightly overwhelmed and captivated. This unique studio magic, peculiar and mischievous, hints at the tension and unspoken attraction simmering beneath their public denial. Elvis adamantly denied any romantic entanglement with Ann-Margret to keep Priscilla reassured, but insiders whispered otherwise.
Priscilla herself had just graduated high school in June 1963 and attended finishing school in Memphis while Elvis was filming. The sharp contrast between his strict denial and the fiery duet’s behind-the-scenes reality continues to fascinate many.
Critics and fans alike celebrate the hypnotic lyrics of “The Lady Loves Me,” which deftly balance playful flirtation and sharp wit:
“She loves me, she loves me not… The lady loves me and it shows… I’d rather kiss a rattlesnake… The lady loves me, but she doesn’t know it yet.”
This duet encapsulates the complex dance of attraction and denial that defined the tumultuous relationship between Presley and Ann-Margret. Their voices intertwine in a playful battle of affection and resistance, peppered with lines that suggest more than just friendly banter.
As one of the most memorable leading ladies in Elvis’s Hollywood saga, Ann-Margret’s influence transcended the screen. Their collaboration remains a vivid snapshot of a Hollywood moment filled with glamour, suspense, and undeniable star power that still echoes through the decades. What secrets did their soulful duet hide? Priscilla, if she ever truly listened closely, would have heard whispers of a love story unfolding just beyond the spotlight.
