Elvis Presley – Playing For Keeps

Introduction:

“Playing for Keeps” by Elvis Presley was recorded on September 1, 1956, and released in early 1957 as the B-side to the hit single “Too Much.” Written by Stan Kesler, a songwriter closely associated with Elvis’s early career, the song is a slow, sentimental ballad that showcases Presley’s softer vocal style, highlighting his versatility as a performer during the peak of his early rock ‘n’ roll era.

Musically, “Playing for Keeps” features Elvis backed by his regular group of musicians, including Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums. The Jordanaires provided background vocals, enhancing the smooth, romantic feel of the track. This composition is reflective of Presley’s move towards more pop-oriented ballads, a direction that would become a significant part of his repertoire in the late 1950s.

Although “Playing for Keeps” was overshadowed by its more upbeat A-side, it still achieved modest chart success, reaching #34 on the Billboard Top 100. The song is often praised by Elvis fans for its heartfelt delivery and stands as an underrated gem from this period, though it did not achieve the same level of commercial success as many of his other releases.

The song is a good example of Elvis’s ability to handle a wide range of material, balancing the excitement of rock ‘n’ roll with the emotional depth of ballads. Today, “Playing for Keeps” remains a fan favorite, appreciated for its sincere emotion and the youthful passion Elvis brought to his early ballad performances​.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Playing For Keeps”

I’m playin’ for keeps
This time it’s real
And I want you to know
Exactly how I feel
I’m playin’ for keeps
I’m sure this time
And I won’t be happy
Until I know you’re mineThere have been others
That could love me true
But no one else can thrill me like you do
I’m playin’ for keeps
Oh love me too
Oh, don’t make me sorry
That I fell in love with you

There have been others
That could love me true
But no one else can thrill me like you do
I’m playin’ for keeps
Oh love me too
Oh, don’t make me sorry
That I fell in love with you