Trying To Get To You – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Trying to Get to You” is a song by Elvis Presley that blends doo-wop roots with his signature rockabilly sound. Originally recorded by a Washington D.C. vocal group, The Eagles, in 1954 as “Tryin’ to Get to You,” the song was initially a smooth, emotional ballad. Elvis Presley, then a rising star recording for Sun Studio in 1955, injected it with his raw energy, transforming it into a driving rock and roll track.

Though Presley recorded the song during his Sun Studio sessions, it wasn’t officially released until 1956 on his debut RCA album, Elvis Presley. His rendition stood out for its intensity, with Presley’s powerful vocals giving the song a sense of urgency and emotional depth. The lyrics express a man’s determination to reach his loved one despite numerous obstacles, and Elvis’ delivery makes that longing palpable.

“Trying to Get to You” became a significant part of Presley’s live performances, including his famous 1968 “Comeback Special,” where he delivered a raw and impassioned rendition. This performance is often remembered for highlighting Elvis’ return to his rockabilly roots and reaffirming his place as a dominant force in rock and roll history.

With its blend of doo-wop, gospel influences, and rockabilly edge, “Trying to Get to You” not only showcases Elvis’ early style but also remains a fan favorite, representing his ability to infuse songs with emotional power and stylistic innovation​.

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.