Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s 1962 ballad, “That’s Someone You Never Forget”. This song, tucked away as the closing track on his album Pot Luck, offers a fascinating glimpse into a different side of the King. Now, by 1962, Elvis was already a global phenomenon. His electrifying brand of rock and roll had taken the world by storm, and his signature swagger and charisma had captivated millions. But “That’s Someone You Never Forget” reveals a softer, more introspective Elvis.
It’s important to remember the context in which this song was written. While Elvis was riding a wave of commercial success, his artistic freedom was starting to be restricted. The movie soundtracks that dominated much of his recording output in the early 60s often featured forgettable pop tunes, a far cry from the raw energy of his Sun Studio recordings. “That’s Someone You Never Forget”, however, stands as a testament to Elvis’s own songwriting desires.
The song itself is a collaboration between Elvis and his longtime friend and bodyguard, Red West. West, a talented songwriter himself, recalled that the song’s title actually came from Elvis himself. This simple phrase, “That’s Someone You Never Forget”, became the foundation for a beautiful and melancholic ballad. The instrumentation is stripped down, featuring a gentle acoustic guitar and a subtle backing rhythm section. Elvis’s vocals, too, are a departure from his usual flamboyant style. Here, he delivers a sincere and heartfelt performance, his voice filled with a quiet longing.
Thematically, the song explores the enduring power of memory and the indelible mark someone can leave on our lives. The lyrics, though not explicitly about a romantic relationship, hint at a past love or a cherished friend whose absence is keenly felt. Lines like “They say time heals all wounds, but some things just won’t mend” convey a sense of enduring heartache, while the repeated refrain “That’s someone you never forget” underscores the lasting impact this person has had on the narrator.
“That’s Someone You Never Forget” may not be one of Elvis’s biggest hits, but it’s a song that holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. It showcases a side of Elvis that wasn’t always on display – his vulnerability, his capacity for emotional depth. It’s a song that reminds us that beneath the rock and roll icon was a complex and sensitive artist, yearning for creative expression. So, the next time you delve into the vast Elvis Presley catalog, don’t miss this hidden gem. “That’s Someone You Never Forget” is a testament to the King’s enduring artistry and a reminder of the emotional power of a well-crafted ballad.