Elvis Presley – The Girl of My Best Friend

Introduction:

Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s 1960 ballad, “The Girl of My Best Friend”. This tune, nestled comfortably on the album “Elvis is Back!”, is a masterclass in capturing that youthful yearning and the moral tug-of-war that often accompanies it. While Elvis was certainly known for his electrifying rock and roll numbers that had the world shaking its hips, “The Girl of My Best Friend” showcases a different side of the King – a man grappling with complex emotions and a touch of vulnerability.

Composed by the songwriting duo of Beverly Ross and Sam Bobrick, the song falls squarely within the realm of pop music, though it retains a strong country influence. This was a period where Elvis, having completed his military service, was transitioning back into the music scene. “Elvis is Back!” reflected this shift, offering a blend of pop sensibilities with the familiar country twang that had initially launched him to stardom. It’s worth noting that the album was produced by the legendary Chet Atkins, who himself was a country music icon. Atkins’ influence can be subtly felt in the arrangement of “The Girl of My Best Friend,” particularly in the prominent use of the acoustic guitar.

The song’s narrative is as relatable as it is timeless. The protagonist, presumably a young man, finds himself smitten with – you guessed it – the girl of his best friend. The lyrics, delivered with Elvis’s signature soulful croon, paint a vivid picture of this forbidden desire. He’s captivated by her every move, her laugh, her beauty. Yet, the moral weight of betraying his friend hangs heavy. The song explores this internal conflict, the constant push and pull between wanting to confess his feelings and the fear of destroying the friendship.

There’s a certain melancholic charm to “The Girl of My Best Friend.” The melody, while undeniably catchy, carries a hint of sadness. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has ever wrestled with an unspoken attraction, the knowledge that acting upon it could have dire consequences. While the song itself didn’t quite reach the chart-topping heights of some of Elvis’s earlier hits, it has become a beloved gem within his vast catalog. It’s a testament to his versatility as a performer, his ability to deliver a powerful ballad just as convincingly as a high-octane rock number.

So, when you hit play on “The Girl of My Best Friend,” prepare to be transported back to a simpler time, a time of bobby socks and poodle skirts, a time where young love could be as thrilling as it was confusing. Let Elvis guide you through the emotional rollercoaster of forbidden desires and fractured loyalties, all wrapped up in a beautifully crafted melody that lingers long after the last note fades.

Video:

Lyrics:

“The Girl Of My Best Friend”