Introduction:
Ah, yes, Elvis Presley’s “City By Night”. Released in 1967, this track is a fascinating little detour in the King’s storied career. Now, Elvis wasn’t known for shying away from the spotlight, but “City By Night” offers a glimpse into a different side of the rock and roll icon.
Let’s set the scene. By 1967, Elvis was already a decade into his meteoric rise. He’d conquered the charts, redefined music for a generation, and become a cultural phenomenon. His signature sound – that electrifying blend of rockabilly, blues, and gospel – had captivated audiences worldwide. However, with the changing musical landscape of the late 60s, Elvis found himself navigating a new terrain.
“City By Night” emerged from the soundtrack for the film Double Trouble, a lighthearted spy comedy starring Elvis himself. Unlike his usual soundtrack contributions, which often mirrored his established rock and roll style, “City by Night” veered into a more sophisticated territory. This was, believe it or not, Elvis’s foray into jazz.
Now, some might scoff at the idea of the King of Rock and Roll singing jazz. But here’s the beauty of “City By Night”: it works. The song is credited to songwriting trio Bill Giant, Florence Kaye, and Bernie Baum, known for crafting catchy pop tunes. They provide a smooth, urbane melody that allows Elvis to showcase a different vocal approach. Gone is the raw power of his early rock hits. Instead, he delivers a smooth, almost conversational performance, crooning about the allure of the city after dark.
The production by Billy Strange complements the vibe perfectly. A gentle saxophone weaves its way through the track, backed by a cool, understated rhythm section. It’s a world away from the driving drums and wailing guitars of Elvis’s early days.
“City By Night” wasn’t a chart-topper, nor did it redefine Elvis’s sound. But it stands as a testament to his versatility as an artist. It shows that the King wasn’t afraid to step outside his comfort zone and explore new musical avenues. So, the next time you delve into the vast Elvis Presley catalog, don’t miss “City By Night”. It’s a hidden gem, a chance to hear the King in a different light, crooning about the magic and mystery that unfolds when the city awakens after dark.