Introduction:
Something Blue: A Heartbreak Ballad by the King
Elvis Presley’s “Something Blue” isn’t your typical rock and roll anthem. Released in 1962, the song takes a turn towards a melancholic ballad, showcasing Presley’s versatility as a vocalist.
While the exact inspiration behind the song remains unknown, its lyrics paint a vivid picture of heartbreak. The narrator attends the wedding of a former lover, reflecting on the lost promises and shattered dreams.
Studio Birth and Album Placement:
Composed by songwriting duo Paul Evans and Al Byron, “Something Blue” was recorded by Presley during a session at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville on March 18, 1962. The song found its place on the album “Pot Luck with Elvis,” a compilation featuring various studio recordings and soundtrack contributions.
Lyrical Breakdown and Emotional Depth:
The song’s title cleverly plays on the traditional wedding custom of “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” Each verse uses this structure to depict the narrator’s emotional state.
“Something old, the times gone by / Something new, these tears I cry” sets the melancholic tone. The narrator reflects on the past relationship and the present pain of loss.
“Something borrowed were those lips my lips knew / And that’s why I’m something blue” highlights the intimacy shared and the emptiness left behind.
As the song progresses, the lyrics become even more poignant: “Something old, the vows we made / Something new, the price I paid / Something borrowed, love was tried but not true / Now my life is something blue.”
The final verse emphasizes the forced smile and internal turmoil: “I guess I’d better smile / Walking behind you down the aisle / I feel I’m walking to my doom / I’m really not the best man in this room.”
Presley’s Delivery and Enduring Appeal:
“Something Blue” showcases Presley’s ability to deliver a powerful ballad. His vocals are emotive, conveying the narrator’s pain and resignation. The gentle guitar work and soft backing vocals further enhance the song’s melancholic atmosphere.
Despite not being one of Presley’s chart-topping hits, “Something Blue” has resonated with fans for its relatable theme of heartbreak. It offers a glimpse into a different side of the King, showcasing his depth as a performer and his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
This 400-word introduction sets the stage for Elvis Presley’s “Something Blue.” It provides historical context, explores the lyrical meaning, and touches on Presley’s vocal delivery.