Elvis Presley – Big Love, Big Heartache (1964)

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “Big Love, Big Heartache”. Released in 1964, this track is a fascinating little gem nestled within the colorful tapestry of Elvis’s filmography. Now, 1964 was a pivotal year for the King. The rock and roll landscape was shifting, with the grittier sounds of the British Invasion bands like The Beatles starting to make waves. Here in America, however, Elvis remained a powerhouse, though his career trajectory was transitioning from the electrifying rebellion of his early days to a more commercially polished sound.

“Big Love, Big Headache” perfectly encapsulates this transitional period. Recorded for the movie Roustabout, a fun, albeit forgettable, musical comedy, the song showcases Elvis’s undeniable charisma but also hints at the changing tides of the music scene. It’s credited to the songwriting trio of Mark Barkan, Dolores Fuller, and Lee Morris, a team not necessarily associated with Elvis’s most iconic hits, but who crafted a tune that undeniably fits the King’s persona.

Now, when we delve into the sound of “Big Love, Big Heartache,” we’re treated to a classic mid-60s pop ballad with a rock and roll edge. The instrumentation is light and playful, featuring a prominent saxophone line courtesy of the legendary Boots Randolph, a mainstay of Elvis’s studio band. The Jordanaires, Elvis’s phenomenal backing vocal group, provide their signature smooth harmonies, adding a touch of gospel-tinged soul to the mix. It’s all brought together under the watchful eye of producer Scotty Moore, a key figure in shaping Elvis’s early sound. While Moore wasn’t as heavily involved in Elvis’s movie soundtracks, his experience shines through in “Big Love, Big Heartache,” ensuring the song retains a level of quality amidst the often formulaic nature of soundtrack tunes.

The true star of the show, however, is of course Elvis himself. His vocal delivery here is captivating. There’s a touch of vulnerability in his voice, perfectly capturing the emotional turmoil of the song’s title. He effortlessly shifts between smooth crooning and soulful belt-outs, reminding us why he was crowned the King of Rock and Roll. The lyrics, though simple, paint a picture of a love affair on the rocks, a sentiment many a young Elvis fan in 1964 could likely relate to.

“Big Love, Big Heartache” may not be a chart-topping smash hit, but it holds a special place in the hearts of many Elvis aficionados. It’s a testament to his versatility as a performer, his ability to deliver a compelling vocal on a song that, while commercially produced, still allows his charisma and talent to shine through. So, put on your blue suede shoes, crank up the volume, and let yourself be swept away by the bittersweet charm of Elvis Presley’s “Big Love, Big Heartache.”

Video:

Lyrics:

“Big Love, Big Heartache”
(from Roustabout soundtrack)
(from “Roustabout” soundtrack)