Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s “Sentimental Me”: A Touch of Nostalgia
Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Sentimental Me” might evoke a sense of sweet melancholy, but the song itself has a rich history predating its association with the King of Rock and Roll. Buckle up for a journey through the song’s life before it became an Elvis classic.
Composed by Jimmy Cassin and Jim Morehead, “Sentimental Me” first found its voice in 1949. The Ames Brothers, a popular vocal group known for their smooth harmonies, brought the song to life. Their version, released by Coral Records, became a massive hit, climbing the Billboard charts and staying there for a remarkable 27 weeks, even peaking at No. 3 [Wikipedia: Sentimental Me].
“Sentimental Me” wasn’t a one-hit wonder for the Ames Brothers. It was actually the B-side to another popular song, “Rag Mop,” which achieved even greater success, reaching No. 1 on the charts [Wikipedia: Sentimental Me]. However, “Sentimental Me” resonated with audiences, becoming a staple in their repertoire.
Ray Anthony and his Orchestra, another prominent act of the era, also took a crack at the song in 1950. Their version, featuring vocals by Ronnie Deauville, showcased a different interpretation, leaning towards a big band swing style. This rendition charted as well, reaching No. 10 on the Billboard charts [Wikipedia: Sentimental Me].
Fast forward to 1961. Elvis Presley, already a superstar, was busy churning out albums. For his record “Something for Everybody,” Elvis dipped his toes into the well of popular ballads, and “Sentimental Me” found its way onto the tracklist.
Elvis’s version, recorded on March 12, 1961, at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, offered a fresh perspective. Backed by his usual bandmates, including Scotty Moore on guitar and D.J. Fontana on drums, Elvis delivered a heartfelt performance. His soulful vocals imbued the song with a touch of vulnerability, showcasing a different side of the rock and roll icon.
While not one of Elvis’s chart-topping hits, “Sentimental Me” became a beloved addition to his vast catalogue. It served as a reminder of his versatility and his ability to breathe new life into established songs.
So, the next time you hear Elvis croon “Sentimental Me,” remember the song’s journey – from a hit for the Ames Brothers to a cherished ballad in the King’s repertoire. It’s a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted song that continues to resonate with listeners across generations.