Elvis Presley – Solitaire

Introduction:

Solitaire, released in 1976, showcases a different side of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. While many know Presley for his electrifying performances and rockabilly hits, Solitaire is a melancholic ballad that taps into themes of loneliness and heartbreak.

This shift in style wasn’t entirely unexpected. Presley’s career spanned multiple genres throughout the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. He rose to fame with rock and roll, but also found success with gospel, blues, and country music. Solitaire leans into this country influence, with its gentle instrumentation and introspective lyrics.

The song was produced by Felton Jarvis, a longtime collaborator with Presley. Jarvis had a significant role in shaping Presley’s later career, working on many of his recordings from the 1960s onward. Solitaire was part of a recording session at Presley’s Memphis mansion, known as the Jungle Room. These sessions yielded a number of country-tinged ballads, including Solitaire.

Solitaire wasn’t a major pop hit, but it did find success on the country charts. The song reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, proving Presley’s enduring appeal in the country music genre.

More importantly, Solitaire stands as a testament to Presley’s versatility as a musician. He could deliver high-octane rock anthems, soulful ballads, and introspective country tunes, all with equal conviction. Solitaire allows us to see a more vulnerable side of Presley, a man who could connect with audiences through his emotional depth as well as his electrifying energy.

Even though it wasn’t a chart-topping hit, Solitaire continues to be a fan favorite. It’s a song that showcases Presley’s remarkable vocal range and his ability to deliver a nuanced performance. Solitaire is a reminder that the King of Rock and Roll could reign over many genres, leaving an indelible mark on the music world.

Video:

Lyrics:

There was a man, a lonely man
Who lost his love, through his indifference
A heart that cares that went unshared
Until it died within his silence

And solitaire’s the only game in town
And every road that takes him, takes him down
While life goes on around him everywhere
He’s playing solitaire

And keeping to himself, begins to deal
And still the king of hearts is well concealed
Another losing game comes to an end
And deals him out again

A little hope goes up in smoke
Just how it goes, goes without saying
There was a man, a lonely man
Who would command the hand he’s playing

And solitaire’s the only game in town
Every road that takes him, takes him down
While life goes on around him everywhere
He’s playing solitaire

And keeping to himself, begins to deal
And still the king of hearts is well concealed
Another losing game comes to an end
And deals him out again

And solitaire’s the only game in town
Every road that takes him, takes him down
Life goes on around him everywhere
He’s playing solitaire