Introduction:
“I Beg of You” is a song recorded by Elvis Presley during a prolific period of his career in the 1950s. Written by Rose Marie McCoy and Kelly Owens, the song was initially recorded by Presley on January 13, 1957, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. This session was part of a larger recording effort that included other significant tracks like “Don’t,” “Playing for Keeps,” and “All Shook Up.” These sessions were crucial in shaping the sound that would define Elvis’ early career, blending rock and roll with rhythm and blues influences.
“I Beg of You” was released as the B-side to the single “Don’t” on January 7, 1958. Despite being a B-side, the song gained considerable attention and popularity. It reached No. 8 on the Billboard Top 100, proving Elvis’ ability to turn nearly any song he touched into a hit. The single’s success highlighted the strength of Presley’s fanbase, which was eager to consume all of his recordings during this era.
The song itself is a plea from the singer to his lover, asking her not to break his heart. With its upbeat tempo and heartfelt lyrics, “I Beg of You” fits within the style of many of Elvis’ early hits, combining emotional intensity with an infectious rhythm. The track features strong backing vocals, typical of Elvis’ recordings during this period, and a driving beat that showcases his ability to perform songs that were both emotionally resonant and commercially appealing.
“I Beg of You” also stands out because it reflects the collaborative nature of Elvis’ recording sessions. Rose Marie McCoy, one of the songwriters, was an African American woman who had written for many prominent artists of the time. Her involvement in crafting “I Beg of You” is a testament to the diverse influences that shaped Elvis’ music, which drew from a variety of musical traditions, including gospel, blues, and country.
Overall, “I Beg of You” remains an important part of Elvis Presley’s catalog, exemplifying the energy and emotion that characterized his early recordings. Its success as a B-side track speaks to the quality of Elvis’ work during this period and his ability to connect with audiences through both his voice and the material he chose to record.