Introduction:
“Suspicion” is a song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1962, written by the prolific songwriting duo Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. The track was part of Presley’s album “Pot Luck,” released on June 15, 1962. Despite its potential, “Suspicion” was not initially released as a single in the United States. The song is characterized by its pop genre, blending elements of rock and roll and rhythm and blues, which were signature styles of Presley during that era.
The recording session for “Suspicion” took place on March 19, 1962, at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville. Elvis was accompanied by a group of seasoned musicians, including guitarists Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, and Scotty Moore; bassist Bob Moore; drummers Buddy Harman and D.J. Fontana; pianist and organist Floyd Cramer; saxophonist Boots Randolph; and vocalists Millie Kirkham and The Jordanaires. This ensemble contributed to the rich, layered sound that defines the track.
The song’s lyrics delve into themes of doubt and jealousy within a romantic relationship. Lines such as “Every time you kiss me, I’m still not certain that you love me” reflect the narrator’s inner turmoil and suspicion. This emotional depth, combined with Presley’s soulful delivery, creates a compelling narrative that resonates with listeners.
Interestingly, “Suspicion” gained significant attention two years after its initial release, when singer Terry Stafford recorded a cover in 1964. Stafford’s version closely mirrored Presley’s style and achieved considerable success, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This unexpected popularity prompted RCA to release Presley’s original recording as a single in the U.S. in April 1964, with “Kiss Me Quick” as the A-side. However, by that time, Stafford’s rendition had already dominated the charts, and Presley’s single did not achieve significant commercial success.
Despite its initial oversight as a single, “Suspicion” found success in various international markets. In Australia, the song was part of a double A-side release with “Kiss Me Quick,” and the combination reached number 1 on the charts. In the United Kingdom, the track experienced a resurgence in popularity, climbing to number 9 on the charts in 1977, following its release as a single in December 1976. This renewed interest was part of a broader revival of Presley’s music during that period.
Over the years, “Suspicion” has been included in numerous compilations of Presley’s work, such as “Elvis Forever” (1974), “The Elvis Presley Story” (1977), and “The 50 Greatest Love Songs” (2001). Its enduring appeal lies in its exploration of universal themes and the emotive power of Presley’s performance. The song stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s versatility and his ability to convey complex emotions through his music.
In summary, while “Suspicion” may not have achieved immediate commercial success upon its initial release, it has since become a notable entry in Elvis Presley’s discography. Its journey from an album track to an international hit underscores the timeless quality of Presley’s music and the enduring relevance of its themes.