Elvis Presley – Ain’t That Loving You Baby

Introduction:

Though not released until 1964, Elvis Presley’s “Ain’t That Loving You Baby” has an interesting backstory that stretches back to the dawn of the rock and roll era. Originally written by Clyde Otis and Ivory Joe Hunter in 1956, the song was first recorded by lesser-known artist Eddie Riff. However, it wouldn’t be until Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, laid down his vocals that the song would find its true audience.

Presley recorded his version of “Ain’t That Loving You Baby” in 1958, during a prolific period in his career. Backed by his legendary band featuring drummer D.J. Fontana or Buddy Harman, pianist Floyd Cramer, and the vocal stylings of The Jordanaires, Presley imbued the song with his signature blend of rock and roll swagger and soulful yearning. While the recording wasn’t initially released as a single, it remained a fan favorite among Presley’s inner circle.

Despite being recorded in 1958, “Ain’t That Loving You Baby” wouldn’t see the light of day for another six years. This delay in release highlights a shift in Presley’s career trajectory during the early 1960s. As rock and roll continued to evolve, Presley’s sound began to incorporate more pop and soul influences. This stylistic shift is evident in his film soundtracks, which contained a mix of rock and roll classics and more ballad-oriented numbers.

Perhaps “Ain’t That Loving You Baby” was deemed a better fit for this new direction. Whatever the reason, when the song finally received a single release in 1964, it was backed with the equally soulful ballad “Ask Me”. While “Ain’t That Loving You Baby” wasn’t a chart-topping smash, it resonated with fans who appreciated Presley’s ability to deliver heartfelt emotion alongside his electrifying performances.

The song’s legacy extends beyond its commercial success. “Ain’t That Loving You Baby” showcases Presley’s versatility as a vocalist. He effortlessly navigates the song’s dynamic range, switching between smooth crooning and impassioned pleas to convince his lover of his devotion. This ability to convey vulnerability alongside his trademark charisma is a key reason why Presley remains such an influential figure in music history.

Today, “Ain’t That Loving You Baby” is considered a hidden gem in Presley’s vast catalog. While not as well-known as his earlier rock and roll anthems, the song offers a glimpse into the soulful side of the King. It’s a testament to Presley’s enduring popularity that even a song released years after its recording can continue to find new fans and appreciation.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Ain’t That Loving You Baby”

I could ride around the world in an old oxcart
And never let another girl thrill my heartAin’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you so?

I could meet a hundred girls and have loads of fun
My huggin’ and my kissin’ belong to just one

Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you so?

If you gave me nine lives like a tommy cat
I’d give ’em all to you and never take one back

Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you so?

I’m putting on my Sunday suit and I’m goin’ downtown
But I’ll be kissin’ your lips before the sun goes down

Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you so?

Ain’t that loving you baby?
Ain’t that loving you so?