Elvis Presley – Thinking About You

Thinking About You arrived on the heels of a particularly successful period for Presley. The early 70s saw him reclaim the charts with hits like “Suspicious Minds” and “Burning Love,” proving his dominance in the ever-evolving musical landscape. This song, however, nestled itself on the B-side of the single My Boy, a testament to the wealth of quality material Presley was producing at the time.

Composed by Tim Baty, Thinking About You falls under the umbrella of what’s broadly termed Southern Soul. This genre, flourishing in Memphis where Presley recorded it at Stax Studios, blended elements of gospel, blues, and R&B, creating a sound that was both deeply soulful and undeniably catchy. The song’s producer, Felton Jarvis, a longtime collaborator of Presley’s, was known for his ability to capture the essence of the artist’s emotional delivery. In Thinking About You, Jarvis masterfully weaves a sonic tapestry that allows Presley’s voice to take center stage.

The departed Memphis Boys, Presley’s backing group for much of his career, are noticeably absent on this track. Instead, the vocal harmonies are provided by J.D. Sumner & The Stamps, a gospel quartet renowned for their soaring, soulful sound. Their presence adds a layer of spiritual yearning to the song, perfectly complementing the themes of love and longing explored in the lyrics.

Thinking About You unfolds like a poignant diary entry. The opening lines paint a picture of heartbreak – a phone call unanswered, a yearning for solace in the countryside. Yet, amidst the despair, there’s an undercurrent of unwavering devotion. The protagonist, despite the distance and potential betrayal, can’t escape the hold this love has on him. Presley’s vocals, imbued with a mature vulnerability, perfectly capture this emotional tug-of-war. There’s a rawness in his delivery, a hint of desperation that underscores the sincerity of his affection.

While not a chart-topping hit, Thinking About You stands as a testament to Presley’s enduring artistry. It’s a song that reveals a deeper dimension to the King, showcasing his ability to evoke a spectrum of emotions beyond the heart-throb persona. So, put on your blue suede shoes, metaphorical or otherwise, and prepare to be swept away by a love song that transcends time – Elvis Presley’s Thinking About You.