Introduction:
“A Mess of Blues” is a song by Elvis Presley, written by the renowned songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. It was recorded during Elvis’ post-army comeback session at RCA Studio B in Nashville on March 21, 1960. This marked a pivotal time in Presley’s career, as he returned to recording after his military service, with a blend of confidence and maturity that defined much of his music during this period.
Released as the B-side to “It’s Now or Never” in July 1960, “A Mess of Blues” still stood out in its own right, becoming a hit in both the US and the UK. The song reached No. 32 on the Billboard Hot 100 and enjoyed even greater success in the UK, peaking at No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart. Musically, “A Mess of Blues” is steeped in the blues tradition, with a sultry, emotive performance from Elvis, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend genres.
The track features the contributions of key session musicians, including guitarist Scotty Moore and saxophonist Boots Randolph, whose presence added depth to the song’s bluesy feel. Randolph’s saxophone work, in particular, gave the song its signature sound, contributing to its gritty, heartfelt atmosphere.
While “A Mess of Blues” was not included on Elvis’ “Elvis Is Back!” album, it was later appreciated as part of his evolving sound, blending blues, rock, and pop influences. The song highlights Elvis’ remarkable versatility and stands as a testament to his lasting influence on both the pop and blues genres during the 1960s.
Video:
Lyrics:
“A Mess Of Blues”
(Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman)
I just got your letter baby
Too bad you can’t come home
I swear I’m goin’ crazy
Sittin’ here all alone
Since you’re gone
I got a mess of bluesI ain’t slept a wink since Sunday
I can’t eat a thing all day
Every day is just blue Monday
Since you’ve been away
Since you’re gone
I got a mess of bluesWhoops there goes a teardrop
Rollin’ down my face
If you cry when you’re in love
It sure ain’t no disgraceI gotta get myself together
Before I lose my mind
I’m gonna catch the next train goin’
And leave my blues behind
Since you’re gone
I got a mess of bluesWhoops there goes a teardrop
Rollin’ down my face
If you cry when you’re in love
It sure ain’t no disgraceI gotta get myself together
Before I lose my mind
I’m gonna catch the next train goin’
And leave my blues behind
Since you’re gone
I got a mess of bluesSince you’re gone I got a mess of blues
Since you’re gone I got a mess of blues