Introduction:
Alright, settle into your favorite armchair, and let’s delve into a lesser-known gem from the King himself, Elvis Presley. “I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” isn’t a chart-topping smash hit like “Hound Dog” or “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” but for those who appreciate the later, more mature Elvis, this 1974 track offers a captivating glimpse into the evolution of the artist.
By 1974, Elvis Presley was no longer the young, hip-swiveling singer who sent teenagers into a frenzy a decade prior. The musical landscape had shifted dramatically, with rock and roll branching out into various subgenres, and Elvis, ever the astute performer, adapted his sound accordingly. This period saw him delve deeper into soulful ballads and country-tinged numbers, showcasing a richer, more nuanced vocal delivery.
“I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” falls squarely into this soulful realm. Written by the swampy blues-rock artist Tony Joe White, the song predates Elvis’ version by a couple of years. White’s original is a gritty, blues-infused number, but when it landed in the hands of producer Glen Spreen, it underwent a transformation. Spreen, a longtime collaborator with Elvis, crafted a smoother, more polished arrangement for the King. The bluesy core remained, evident in the steady guitar picking and the underlying rhythm section, but Spreen layered it with lush orchestrations and the soaring backing vocals of the J.D. Sumner & The Stamps. This created a perfect bed for Elvis’ vocals, allowing him to explore the full range of his emotions.
“I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” isn’t a flashy, attention-grabbing song. Its strength lies in its quiet intensity. The lyrics, while simple and straightforward, convey a deep-seated love and devotion. Elvis, with his seasoned voice, imbues the song with a palpable sincerity. There’s a touch of world-weariness in his delivery, hinting at the challenges and triumphs of a long career, yet it’s laced with an undeniable tenderness as he sings of his unwavering affection.
While “I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” wasn’t a major hit upon its release, peaking at number 33 on the UK charts, it has become a favorite among dedicated Elvis fans. It stands as a testament to his adaptability and his enduring ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. This track offers a glimpse into a slightly different side of the King, a side that’s less about youthful rebellion and more about the enduring power of love and commitment. So, put on your headphones, crank up the volume, and prepare to be captivated by the soulful stylings of Elvis Presley in “I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby”.
Video:
Lyrics:
“I’ve Got A Thing About You Baby”
That I think you ought to know
That my eyes are on you baby
Since a long time ago
And now I fin’ly got the nerve
And I’m gonna make my move
Now don’t you try to turn me off
Cause it’s gonna be hard to doI’ve got a thing about you baby
Ain’t nothing I can do
I’ve got a thing about you baby
A thing about lovin’ you
Ain’t it just like a woman
When she knows she’s got a man
She’ll wring you out and turn you ’bout
In the palm of her hand
And then she starts to thinkin’
Then maybe she’s put you in a blind
She’ll give you just a little lovin’
It’ll drive you out of your mind
I’ve got a thing about you baby
Ain’t nothing you can do
I’ve got a thing about you baby
A thing about lovin’ you