Elvis Presley – Inherit The Wind

Composed by the up-and-coming songwriter Eddie Rabbitt, “Inherit the Wind” leans towards a more introspective country ballad. The legendary Chips Moman, known for his work with artists like Merrilee Rush and American Sound Studio’s house band, took the producer’s helm. While the song itself didn’t achieve the chart-topping success of Elvis’ earlier hits, it holds a special place for those who appreciate the King’s artistic evolution and willingness to explore new musical territories.

“Inherit the Wind” opens with a gentle acoustic guitar and a melancholic Elvis, a far cry from the electrifying stage presence he was known for. The lyrics paint a picture of a restless soul, a man with a wandering spirit inherited from his father. This theme of restlessness and a yearning for something more resonates deeply, particularly when contrasted with Elvis’ own public image at the time.

The song arrived in 1969, a period of immense social and cultural upheaval in America. The Vietnam War raged on, the Civil Rights Movement continued its fight for equality, and rock and roll itself was undergoing a significant transformation. “Inherit the Wind” reflects a certain wistfulness, a sense of impermanence that mirrored the anxieties of the times.

It’s important to note that the song’s title, “Inherit the Wind”, carries a double meaning. On the surface, it refers to the protagonist’s restless spirit, a trait passed down from his father. However, the title also evokes a sense of impermanence, a reminder that life itself is fleeting, much like the ever-changing wind. This deeper meaning resonates with the broader cultural mood of the late 1960s, a time when traditional values were being challenged and the future seemed uncertain.

So, as we prepare to delve into Elvis Presley’s “Inherit the Wind”, let’s set aside our expectations of the King’s usual rock and roll swagger. Instead, let’s embrace this introspective ballad, a testament to Elvis’ artistic growth and a reflection of the turbulent times it emerged from. This song offers a glimpse into a more vulnerable side of the King, a man grappling with his own restlessness and the ever-changing world around him.