Introduction:
“It’s a Matter of Time” is a country ballad penned by British songwriter Clive Westlake and recorded by Elvis Presley in 1972. The song was released as the B-side to the single “Burning Love” on August 1, 1972, and later featured on the compilation album Burning Love and Hits from His Movies, Volume 2 in November of the same year.
Recording History
Elvis recorded “It’s a Matter of Time” during a session on March 29, 1972, at RCA’s Studio C in Hollywood, California. This session was part of a series of recordings that also produced tracks like “Always On My Mind” and “Fool.”The recording featured notable musicians, including James Burton and John Wilkinson on guitar, Emory Gordy on bass, Ronnie Tutt on drums, Glen D. Hardin on piano, and backing vocals by J.D. Sumner & The Stamps.
Release and Reception
The single “Burning Love” with “It’s a Matter of Time” as its B-side was released on August 1, 1972. “Burning Love” achieved significant success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. While “It’s a Matter of Time” did not chart on the Hot 100, it found success on other charts. It reached number 36 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number 9 on the Billboard Easy Listening chart.This single became Elvis’s last to be certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying over one million copies sold.
Musical Style and Themes
“It’s a Matter of Time” showcases Elvis’s versatility in the country genre. The song’s lyrics express a longing and anticipation for a loved one’s return, a theme that resonates with the emotional depth Elvis often conveyed in his music. The arrangement is characterized by a mellow tempo, with subtle instrumentation that allows Elvis’s vocal delivery to take center stage. The backing vocals by J.D. Sumner & The Stamps add a rich harmonic layer, enhancing the song’s depth.
Critical Response
Upon its release, the single received positive attention. Billboard magazine, in its August 12, 1972 issue, listed “Burning Love / It’s a Matter of Time” as a recommended selection in the “Pop” category.While “Burning Love” was the more commercially successful track, “It’s a Matter of Time” was appreciated for its country appeal and Elvis’s heartfelt performance.
Legacy
Over the years, “It’s a Matter of Time” has been recognized as one of Elvis’s noteworthy country recordings from the 1970s. Fans and critics have praised the song for its understated quality and Elvis’s emotive delivery. Some have noted that, despite not being a major hit, the song stands out as a gem in Elvis’s extensive catalog.
Conclusion
“It’s a Matter of Time” may not have achieved the same commercial success as its A-side counterpart, “Burning Love,” but it remains a testament to Elvis Presley’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music. The song’s country roots, combined with Elvis’s soulful interpretation, have solidified its place as a cherished track among fans and a notable entry in his 1970s repertoire.