Introduction:
“Change of Habit” is a song by Elvis Presley, released in 1969 as part of the soundtrack for the movie of the same name. The song was written by Ben Weisman and Buddy Kaye, two prolific songwriters who frequently collaborated with Presley. “Change of Habit” marked one of the final chapters of Presley’s movie career and served as the title track for the film, which was also released in 1969. This period was notable for Presley as he sought to revitalize his music career and public image after a decade largely dominated by Hollywood productions.
Belonging to the pop and rock genres, “Change of Habit” is reflective of the shifting musical landscape of the late 1960s. The song features a blend of rock and soul elements, mirroring the broader cultural transitions of the time. As a part of the soundtrack album for the film, it showcased Presley’s attempts to remain relevant amid a rapidly changing music scene influenced by rock, psychedelia, and the burgeoning singer-songwriter movement. The song captures a sense of urgency and modernity that was necessary for Presley to stay connected to his audience.
While “Change of Habit” did not become one of Presley’s most famous songs, it is significant in his discography for its association with the last of his acting roles and his return to live performance. The film “Change of Habit,” in which Presley stars as a doctor and Mary Tyler Moore as a nun, deals with socially conscious themes, something uncommon for many of his earlier films. The song, and the film itself, showed a maturing side of Presley, who was attempting to move away from the formulaic musical comedies that had defined much of his career in the 1960s.
In terms of achievements, the song and its associated soundtrack album did not chart as high as some of Presley’s earlier works. However, “Change of Habit” remains a key piece in understanding the transition phase of Presley’s career from a Hollywood icon back to a live performer, ultimately setting the stage for his celebrated “Comeback Special” in 1968 and subsequent return to live performances in Las Vegas in 1969. The song stands as a testament to Presley’s adaptability and willingness to experiment with different musical styles and themes at a pivotal point in his career.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Change Of Habit”
Set in your old ways
Changes are a-comin’
For these are changing daysAnd if your head is in the sand
While things are goin’ on
What you need, what you need
What you need is a change of habit
Now if you’re in the habit
To let your temper fly
When you talk with people
Who don’t see eye to eye
And if you don’t believe it
There’s a newer world ahead
What you need, what you need
What you need is a change of habit
A change of habit, a change of outlook
A change of heart, you’ll be alright
The halls of darkness, have doors that open
It’s never too late to see the light
So if you’re in the habit
Putting people down
Just because they’re different
From the wrong side of town
Well, don’t count on any medals, son
They’re pinning none on you
What you need, what you need
What you need is a change of habit
A change of habit, a change of outlook
A change of heart, you’ll be alright
The halls of darkness, have doors that open
It’s never too late to see the light
So if you’re in the habit
Of putting people down
Just because they’re different
From the wrong side of town
Well, don’t count on any medals, son
They’re pinning none on you
What you need, what you need
What you need is a change of habit
Change of habit, hmm, change of habit
Change of habit