Elvis Presley – “(Now And Then There’s) A Fool Such As I”

Introduction:

Ah, yes, “(Now And Then There’s) A Fool Such As I”. A timeless ballad delivered with Elvis Presley’s signature charm, this song carves a niche in the king’s vast catalog that’s both tender and surprisingly introspective. Released in 1959 on the compilation album Elvis’ Gold Records, Vol. 2, it wasn’t originally a chart-topper, but its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its emotional resonance.

Composed by Bill Trader in 1952, the song found its initial success in the country genre with recordings by artists like Hank Snow. However, when Elvis stepped into RCA’s Studio B in Nashville in 1958 – during a break from his army service – he breathed new life into the composition. Backed by the legendary pianist Floyd Cramer, the ever-reliable guitarists Hank Garland and Chet Atkins, and the solid rhythm section of bassist Bob Moore and drummer D.J. Fontana, Elvis crafted a version that showcased his maturing vocals.

While Elvis was certainly known for his electrifying performances and rock and roll swagger, “(Now And Then There’s) A Fool Such As I” reveals a different facet of the artist. Here, we encounter a vulnerability that’s rarely explored in his earlier, more energetic hits. The song’s narrator grapples with the bittersweet pangs of love and separation. The opening line, sung with a touch of trepidation, sets the tone: “Pardon me, if I’m sentimental When we say goodbye” – a stark contrast to the bravado of his early rock anthems.

The beauty of the song lies in its simplicity. The ballad format allows Elvis’s voice to take center stage, conveying a depth of emotion that transcends the playful persona he often projected. The lyrics, though straightforward, paint a poignant picture of a lovesick fool clinging to fading memories: “Don’t be angry with me should I cry When you’re gone, yet I’ll dream A little dream as years go by” There’s a melancholic yearning in his delivery, a vulnerability that resonates with anyone who’s ever experienced the heartache of goodbye.

“(Now And Then There’s) A Fool Such As I” stands as a testament to Elvis’s versatility as a performer. While he could undoubtedly ignite a stage with his dynamic energy, here he demonstrates a remarkable ability to connect with listeners through sheer emotional honesty. This song, released amidst a string of his more rock-driven hits, offered a glimpse into a more sensitive side of the king, a side that would continue to emerge throughout his career. So, let’s delve into this lesser-known gem, a song that showcases not just Elvis’s undeniable charisma, but also the depth of his musical talent.

Video:

Lyrics:

“(Now And Then There’s) A Fool Such As I”