Introduction:
Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” has left an indelible mark on music history, and his 1960 track, “The Girl of My Best Friend,” is a testament to his enduring legacy. This song, included on his celebrated album Elvis Is Back!, was released during a pivotal moment in Presley’s career, marking his return to the music scene after serving in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1960. Known for his powerful voice and unmatched charisma, Presley made a stunning comeback with this album, showing the world he hadn’t missed a beat.
“The Girl of My Best Friend” is a reflection of Elvis’s ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with smooth vocals. Released in the spring of 1960, this song falls under the pop and rockabilly genres, combining elements of both to create a light, catchy tune with an undercurrent of emotional depth. While Presley is most often associated with rock ‘n’ roll, this track highlights his versatility as a singer, effortlessly blending upbeat rhythms with a reflective narrative.
The song was written by Sam Bobrick and Beverly Ross, both successful songwriters known for crafting catchy yet emotional lyrics. The production was handled by Steve Sholes, a name closely tied to Presley’s career and success. Sholes was instrumental in guiding Presley during his early years at RCA Victor, and his influence on this track is evident. The production is crisp, allowing Presley’s voice to shine, while the arrangements complement his smooth yet commanding delivery.
Musically, “The Girl of My Best Friend” stands out for its gentle instrumentation, which showcases a clean guitar riff that flows through the song, accentuated by a subtle rhythm section. The instrumental setup on the track included Hank Garland on guitar, Floyd Cramer on piano, and Bob Moore on bass, each of whom brought their own unique touch to the piece. This cohesive blend of instrumentals created a backdrop that perfectly complemented Presley’s vocal style. Garland’s guitar work, in particular, adds a layer of warmth and softness to the song, enhancing the bittersweet theme of the narrative.
Though “The Girl of My Best Friend” wasn’t released as a single in the U.S. at the time, it found chart success in countries like the United Kingdom, where it climbed into the Top 10. This was a testament not only to Elvis’s international appeal but also to the universal nature of the song’s theme—unrequited love and the internal conflict it brings. Over the years, this track has remained a fan favorite, partly because of its relatable subject matter and partly because it showcases a softer side of Elvis Presley.
Even though “The Girl of My Best Friend” might not have achieved the massive commercial success of some of Elvis’s other hits, it stands out as an essential track in his discography, representing a time of personal and professional growth. Its inclusion on Elvis Is Back! signals the artist’s shift toward more mature and polished performances, marking a new chapter in his career.
In summary, “The Girl of My Best Friend” is a notable piece in Elvis Presley’s extensive catalog, not only for its musical and vocal quality but also for the context in which it was released. The song, with its tender melodies and poignant theme, is a shining example of Presley’s ability to connect with listeners through heartfelt storytelling, all while maintaining his trademark charm and vocal prowess.
Video:
Lyrics:
“The Girl Of My Best Friend”
The way she walks
The way she talks
How long can I pretend
Oh I can’t help I’m in love
With the girl of my best friendHer lovely hair
Her skin so fair
I could go on and never end
Oh, I can’t help I’m in love
With the girl of my best friendI want to tell her
How I love her so
And hold her in my arms, but then
What if she got real mad and told him so
I could never face either one againThe way they kiss
Their happiness
Will my aching heart ever mend?
Or will I always be in love
With the girl of my best friend?Never end
Will it ever end?
Please let it end