Elvis Presley – Make Me Know It (1960)

Introduction:

In 1960, a young Elvis Presley was already a rising star, but “Make Me Know It” marked a turning point in his career. Released in April of that year, the song showcased not only Presley’s undeniable charisma and captivating vocals, but also a shift towards a more mature sound that would solidify his place as the King of Rock and Roll.

Composed by Otis Blackwell, a prolific songwriter who penned many of Presley’s early hits, “Make Me Know It” is a mid-tempo rock and roll song. Steve Sholes, who had previously produced some of Presley’s Sun Records hits, returned behind the mixing desk for “Make Me Know It,” crafting a sound that balanced Presley’s raw energy with a newfound sophistication.

The song’s lyrics depict a young man yearning for a woman’s affections. While the theme may seem familiar, Presley’s delivery elevates the material. His vocals are powerful and emotive, conveying a vulnerability that resonated with audiences. The signature Elvis Presley swagger is still present, but it’s tempered with a newfound depth.

“Make Me Know It” was a commercial success, reaching number 15 on the Billboard charts. However, its true impact lies in its contribution to Presley’s artistic evolution. The song marked a move away from the pure rockabilly sound of his early Sun recordings and paved the way for the pop-influenced sound that would dominate the latter half of his career.

“Make Me Know It” was also featured in the 1960 film “Tickle Me”, further solidifying Presley’s status as a pop culture icon. The song’s influence can be heard in the works of countless artists who followed in Presley’s footsteps, solidifying its place as a rock and roll classic.

Today, “Make Me Know It” remains a beloved track among Presley fans. It’s a reminder of his undeniable talent and the transformative power of his music. The song stands as a testament to Presley’s ability to captivate audiences while constantly evolving as an artist, a quality that would propel him to superstardom and forever change the landscape of popular music.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Make Me Know It”

You say that you love me
And swear it to be true
But if you care to come over here
And make me know it do
Come on now, make me know it
Then go ahead and show it
But if you care to come over here
And make me know it doYou say you’ve got kisses
And swear that they’re brand new
I think that’s fine if you ain’t lyin’
But make me know it do
Come on now, make me know it
Then go ahead and show it
I think that’s fine if you ain’t lyin’
But make me know it do

You won’t have no trouble proving it to me
Come right along you’ll find me
Helpful as can be

You say you wanna hold me
And stick to me like glue
Well hearing’s deceiving
And seeing’s believing
Make me know it do
Come on now, make me know it
Well go ahead and show it
I say hearing’s deceiving
Seeing’s believing
Make me know it do

You won’t have no trouble proving it to me
Come right along you’ll find me
Helpful as can be

You say you wanna hold me
And stick to me like glue
Well hearing’s deceiving
And seeing’s believing
Make me know it do
Come on now, make me know it
Well go ahead and show it
I say hearing’s deceiving
Seeing’s believing
Make me know it do

Oh make me know it
Then go ahead and show it
Make me know it
Then go ahead and show it