Elvis Presley – Take Good Care Of Her

One such example is the poignant ballad, Take Good Care Of Her, released in 1974. This heartfelt plea falls under the umbrella of blue-eyed soul, a subgenre where white singers adopted the soulful stylings of African American artists. Presley, with his natural charisma and powerful vocals, was a perfect fit for this genre, and Take Good Care Of Her exemplifies his mastery of it.

The song’s origins lie a few years prior, penned by songwriting duo Arthur Kent and Ed Warren in 1961. Their creation found initial success with Adam Wade, reaching number twenty on the R&B charts and cracking the top ten on the Hot 100. However, the song’s emotional core resonated deeply with Presley, who decided to record his own rendition in 1973. Working alongside producer Felton Jarvis, a longtime collaborator known for his polished and soulful productions, Presley poured his heart into the recording sessions at Stax Studios in Memphis.

Take Good Care Of Her isn’t a typical Presley barnstormer. Gone are the driving rhythms and playful swagger of his early hits. Instead, a gentle piano melody lays the foundation, punctuated by tasteful strings and backing vocals courtesy of the Stamps Quartet, a gospel group known for their soaring harmonies. Presley’s voice, however, is the true star of the show. He delivers the lyrics with a vulnerability rarely seen in his earlier work. The pain of lost love is palpable, yet there’s a quiet dignity in his acceptance.

Take Good Care Of Her wasn’t a chart-topping smash hit, but it holds a special place in the Presley catalog. It showcases his growth as a vocalist, his ability to connect with the emotional depth of a song, and his willingness to explore genres beyond the confines of rock and roll. It’s a testament to his enduring legacy, a reminder that the King of Rock and Roll could croon a ballad with just as much power and conviction as he could belt out a rockabilly anthem. So, let’s delve into Take Good Care Of Her, a song that offers a glimpse into the soulful and introspective side of the King.