Aura Lea

Aura Lea is a popular song, originally published as "Aura Lea" with music by W. W. Fosdick and lyrics by W. Whiteman in 1861. The song gained significant popularity during the American Civil War, often associated with the Confederate States of America despite not being explicitly a Confederate song.

The tune is best known in modern times as the basis for the Elvis Presley song "Love Me Tender," with new lyrics written by Ken Darby (published under his wife's name, Vera Matson). "Love Me Tender" was a major hit for Presley in 1956 and further cemented the melody's place in popular culture.

"Aura Lea" is a waltz, typically performed in 3/4 time. The lyrics depict a romantic longing for a woman named Aura Lea, praising her beauty and grace. Numerous versions and adaptations of the song have been recorded throughout its history. While the original lyrics are less frequently performed today, the melody remains widely recognizable due to its association with "Love Me Tender."