Introduction:
“Patch It Up” is a dynamic song that reflects a significant moment in Elvis Presley’s career, both musically and personally. Written by Eddie Rabbitt and Rory Bourke, the song was originally recorded during Elvis’s July 1970 sessions at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville. “Patch It Up” was later included in the soundtrack for Elvis’s iconic concert film Elvis: That’s the Way It Is, which documented his return to live performances after years of primarily focusing on movies.
“Patch It Up” marked Elvis’s return to the energetic, rock-oriented sound that had made him famous in the 1950s, but with a modern twist. The song features a fast-paced, driving beat that blended rock, pop, and country influences, showcasing Elvis’s versatility and ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the 1970s. His vocal performance is particularly notable for its passion and power, bringing an almost frantic energy to the lyrics, which talk about attempting to repair a broken relationship.
Released as the B-side to the single “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me” in October 1970, “Patch It Up” still managed to capture attention on its own. The single was a part of the That’s the Way It Is album, which combined live recordings from his Las Vegas performances with studio tracks, including “Patch It Up.” The song was also performed during Elvis’s August 1970 Las Vegas residency at the International Hotel, a period that revitalized his performing career and connected him with a new generation of fans.
Musically, “Patch It Up” is a high-energy song with notable contributions from some of Nashville’s top session musicians, such as James Burton on guitar and Ronnie Tutt on drums. Elvis’s performances of the song during his Las Vegas concerts showcased his charisma and stage presence, reaffirming his status as a live performer at a time when his relevance in the rock and roll world was being questioned by some.
Although “Patch It Up” didn’t achieve the same commercial success as some of Elvis’s other hits from the era, it remains a memorable part of his 1970s catalog, reflecting both his desire to remain a contemporary force in music and his roots in the rockabilly sound that had made him a star.