Trying To Get To You – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Trying to Get to You” is a song that holds a special place in the history of rock and roll, particularly in the legacy of Elvis Presley. Originally written by Charlie Singleton and Rose Marie McCoy, the song was first recorded by the R&B group The Eagles in 1954 for Mercury Records. However, it was Elvis Presley’s rendition, recorded in 1955, that became widely popular and solidified the song’s status in rock history.

Elvis Presley’s version of “Trying to Get to You” was recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, on July 11, 1955, during his early sessions with producer Sam Phillips. At the time, Presley was still under contract with Sun Records, the label that had launched his career with hits like “That’s All Right.” The song featured Presley’s powerful vocals and was backed by his then-regular band, including guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black. It demonstrated the blend of rhythm and blues, country, and gospel influences that defined Presley’s early sound—a style that would later be recognized as rockabilly.

Though Elvis’s recording was made in 1955, it wasn’t officially released until 1956 when it appeared on his debut RCA Victor album titled Elvis Presley. This self-titled album, released in March 1956, was a significant milestone, marking Presley’s transition from a regional performer to a national sensation. Elvis Presley became the first rock and roll album to top the Billboard pop album chart, and its success helped introduce the genre to a mainstream audience.

Musically, “Trying to Get to You” is a blend of R&B and rockabilly, with heartfelt lyrics about longing and determination. Elvis’s delivery is emotional and raw, particularly in the later 1968 version when he performed it during his famous ’68 Comeback Special, adding an even more soulful edge to the track.

Although “Trying to Get to You” was never released as a single, it became one of Elvis’s most beloved tracks, frequently featured in his live performances throughout his career. Its blend of musical styles, combined with Presley’s magnetic performance, showcased his ability to transcend genre boundaries, making it a testament to his artistry during the early days of rock and roll.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Trying To Get To You”

I’ve been traveling over mountains
Even through the valleys, too
I’ve been traveling night and day
I’ve been running all the way
Baby, trying to get to you.

Ever since I read your letter
Where you said you loved me true
I’ve been traveling night and day
I’ve been running all the way
baby, trying to get to you

When I read your loving letter
Then my heart began to sing
There were many miles between us,
But they didn’t mean a thing.

I just had to reach you, baby,
In spite of all that I’ve been through.
I kept traveling night and day,
I kept running all the way,
Baby, trying to get to you.

Well if I had to do it over
That’s exactly what I’d do,
I would travel night and day,
And I’d still run all the way,
Baby, trying to get to you.

Well, there’s nothing that could hold me
Or that could keep me away from you
When your loving letter told me
That you really loved me true

Lord above me knows I love you
It was He who brought me through,
When my way was dark as night,
He would shine His brightest light,
When I was trying to get to you.