Elvis Presley – Take Good Care of Her – 1974

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “Take Good Care of Her”. Released in 1974, this poignant ballad showcases a side of The King that many fans might not expect. While the world knew him for his electrifying rock and roll anthems and smooth, hip-swiveling charisma, “Take Good Care of Her” strips things down to a raw and tender display of vulnerability.

Composed by songwriting duo Ed Warren and Arthur Kent, the song originally appeared in 1961, but it wasn’t until 1973 that Elvis truly made it his own. During a session at the legendary Stax Studios in Memphis, Tennessee, Presley, backed by the soulful vocals of J.D. Sumner and The Stamps, delivered a performance brimming with heartfelt emotion. Producer Felton Jarvis, known for his work with Presley throughout the 70s, captured a remarkable moment in the King’s career, a time when his voice held a depth and maturity not always present in his earlier recordings.

“Take Good Care of Her” is a ballad in the truest sense. The tempo is slow and deliberate, allowing Elvis to fully inhabit the character of a heartbroken lover. The gentle piano chords set the mood, while the backing vocals offer a subtle gospel influence, adding a layer of melancholic beauty. But it’s Presley’s voice that truly takes center stage. Here, we hear a man grappling with loss and acceptance. The opening line, “Take good care of her, take good care of her,” sets the tone for the entire song. It’s a plea, a selfless wish for the happiness of the woman he loves, even though she doesn’t love him back.

The lyrics delve into the complexities of unrequited love. We hear the protagonist’s regret – “I know I hurt her, I know I caused her pain” – but also his unwavering devotion. Despite his own heartache, his primary concern is for her well-being. The repeated chorus, “Take good care of her, ’cause she’s precious to me, more than words can say,” becomes a mantra, a desperate hope whispered into the void.

“Take Good Care of Her” wasn’t a chart-topping hit, but it has become a beloved song among Elvis fans. It stands as a testament to his versatility as an artist, his ability to deliver not just electrifying rock and roll, but also deeply moving ballads that resonate with the universal themes of love, loss, and sacrifice. It’s a song that showcases a more mature Elvis, one who could tap into a well of raw emotion and deliver a performance that tugs at the heartstrings. So, when you listen to “Take Good Care of Her”, don’t expect the rock and roll king of the 50s. Instead, prepare to encounter a different side of Elvis, a man who bares his soul and reminds us of the enduring power of a love that can’t be possessed.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Take Good Care Of Her”