Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s 1974 track, “I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby”, offers a delightful glimpse into his charismatic persona. Released as the B-side to “Take Good Care of Her,” this lighthearted number showcases Elvis’ ability to deliver playful charm alongside his signature rock and roll swagger.
“I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” wasn’t an Elvis original. The song was written by the prolific songwriting duo of Tony Joe White and Sandy Mason, known for crafting playful, humorous tunes for a variety of artists. However, in Elvis’ hands, the song takes on a new life – a playful confession of infatuation delivered with a wink and a smile.
The production, overseen by Presley’s longtime collaborator Glen Spreen, is pure, unadulterated rock and roll. A driving rhythm section lays the foundation, punctuated by a touch of soulful piano and playful horns. Elvis himself delivers the vocals with a youthful exuberance, his voice brimming with charm and a hint of mischievousness.
“I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” wasn’t a chart-topping hit, but it holds a certain cult status amongst Elvis fans. It’s a song that captures a specific facet of his persona – a playful bad boy with a hint of rebellion simmering beneath the surface. The lyrics tell the story of a young man smitten with a “china doll” displayed in a shop window. He waxes poetic about her beauty and imagines all sorts of romantic adventures they could have together.
While some might criticize the song’s lighthearted nature, it’s this very quality that makes it so endearing. “I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” is a reminder that Elvis wasn’t just a brooding heartthrob; he was a performer who knew how to connect with audiences through humor and playful storytelling.
The song also showcases Elvis’ versatility as a vocalist. He effortlessly shifts between smooth crooning and playful yelps, perfectly capturing the carefree spirit of the lyrics. The backing vocals, a staple of Elvis recordings, add a touch of gospel-tinged harmony, further enriching the overall soundscape.
“I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” might not be a career-defining song, but it offers a glimpse into a specific and endearing facet of Elvis Presley. It’s a reminder that the King of Rock and Roll could not only deliver electrifying performances and soulful ballads, but also inject a dose of playful charm into his music. So, put on “I’ve Got a Thing About You Baby” and let Elvis take you back to a time of simpler pleasures, catchy melodies, and a whole lot of rock and roll swagger.