Introduction:
My Happiness: The King’s Humble Beginnings
“My Happiness” holds a special place in music history, not just for being a catchy tune, but for marking the very beginning of a legend’s career. It’s a song intertwined with the story of a young Elvis Presley and his first steps on the path to superstardom.
The origins of the melody itself stretch back further than Elvis. In 1933, Borney Bergantine wrote a version with different lyrics that never quite achieved widespread recognition. Fast forward to 1948, however, and a new version titled “My Happiness” by the Country Couples, with lyrics by Lester Lyles, emerged. This more familiar version gained traction, becoming a pop music standard of the mid-20th century.
Enter Elvis Presley in 1953. A young and unknown 18-year-old with a dream, Elvis ventured into Memphis Recording Service, also known as Sun Studios. Accompanied by guitarist Scotty Moore, Elvis laid down two tracks that day: “My Happiness” and “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin.” There’s even a rumor that these recordings were a gift for his mother, Gladys.
Sun Studio owner Sam Phillips recognized a spark in Elvis’s voice, even in this early and relatively raw performance. While “My Happiness” wasn’t the song that launched Elvis into the stratosphere, it represents a significant milestone. It’s a chance to hear the unpolished potential of a future King, a glimpse into the artist he would become.
The song itself is a delightful slice of simple, heartfelt pop. The lyrics speak of unwavering devotion, declaring that happiness is found not in material things or specific locations, but simply in being with the one you love. Elvis’s youthful vocals deliver the message with a charm that’s undeniable, even in this early recording.
“My Happiness” may not be one of Elvis’s most famous songs, but it holds immense historical significance. It’s a reminder of his humble beginnings, a testament to the raw talent that captivated Sam Phillips, and a stepping stone on the path to rock and roll royalty. So, when you listen to “My Happiness,” you’re not just listening to a song, you’re experiencing a pivotal moment in music history.