Introduction:
While the name Elvis Presley is synonymous with the electrifying birth of Rock and Roll in the mid-1950s, his musical reach extended beyond the genre’s signature sound. In 1957, the same year he released iconic tracks like “Jailhouse Rock” and “Hound Dog,” Presley lent his voice to a song that had already established itself as a popular standard: “Blueberry Hill”.
Composed by Vincent Rose with lyrics by Larry Stock and Al Lewis, the original “Blueberry Hill” was released in 1940. It quickly became a hit, with several versions finding success on the charts. The most notable rendition came from bandleader Glenn Miller whose swing interpretation reached number two on the US charts. Louis Armstrong also took a stab at the song in 1949, achieving moderate success. However, it was Fats Domino‘s rhythm and blues infused version in 1956 that truly revitalized the song for a new generation. Domino’s energetic performance, complete with his signature piano style, propelled “Blueberry Hill” to number two on the Billboard Top 40 charts, solidifying it as a rock and roll standard.
Elvis Presley‘s recording of “Blueberry Hill” arrived the following year, featured on the soundtrack for his film “Loving You”. Unlike Domino’s high-octane performance, Presley’s rendition took a more laid-back approach. Backed by a gentle doo-wop style arrangement, Presley’s smooth vocals delivered a nostalgic feel, capturing the song’s underlying sentimentality. While not achieving the chart success of Domino’s version, Presley’s interpretation showcased his versatility as a performer, his ability to seamlessly blend rock and roll swagger with a more soulful delivery.
The release of “Blueberry Hill” by Elvis Presley further cemented the song’s place in American pop culture. Presley’s immense popularity at the time ensured that the song continued to be heard by a wide audience, even as rock and roll continued to evolve. “Blueberry Hill” transcended genre and generation, becoming a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed today.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Blueberry Hill”
I found my thrill on blueberry hill
On blueberry hill when I found you
The moon stood still on blueberry hill
And lingered until my dreams came trueThe wind in the willow played
Love’s sweet melody
But all of those vows we made
Were never to beTho’ we’re apart, you’re part of me still
For you were my thrill on blueberry hill