Introduction:
“Blueberry Hill” is a song with a rich history, spanning multiple decades and interpretations by various artists. While Elvis Presley did record a version of “Blueberry Hill,” it’s important to note that the song was not originally his, nor did his rendition achieve significant commercial success.
Origins and Early Popularity
“Blueberry Hill” was composed in 1940 by Vincent Rose, with lyrics by Larry Stock and Al Lewis. The song was first recorded by Sammy Kaye and His Orchestra, featuring vocalist Tommy Ryan, on May 31, 1940. That same year, the Glenn Miller Orchestra’s rendition, with vocals by Ray Eberle, became particularly successful, reaching number two on the U.S. charts. The song’s early versions were rooted in the big band and jazz genres, reflecting the musical trends of the era.
Fats Domino’s Definitive Version
In 1956, “Blueberry Hill” found renewed popularity through the recording by Fats Domino. Domino’s version transformed the song into a rock and roll classic, characterized by his distinctive piano style and smooth vocals. This rendition reached number two on the Billboard Top 40 charts and spent eight non-consecutive weeks at number one on the R&B Best Sellers chart. It has since been recognized as a seminal track in the rock and roll genre.
Elvis Presley’s Interpretation
Elvis Presley recorded his version of “Blueberry Hill” on January 19, 1957, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. This recording session was part of the work for his second studio album, “Loving You,” which also served as the soundtrack for his film of the same name. The album was released on June 20, 1957, and featured a mix of songs from the movie and additional tracks, including “Blueberry Hill.”
Presley’s rendition of “Blueberry Hill” showcases his ability to blend rock and roll with traditional pop sensibilities. While it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as Fats Domino’s version, it remains a testament to Elvis’s versatility as an artist. The “Loving You” album itself was well-received, spending ten weeks at number one on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart and being certified Gold on April 9, 1968, by the Recording Industry Association of America.
Musical Genre and Style
Elvis’s version of “Blueberry Hill” can be classified within the rock and roll and rockabilly genres. His interpretation infuses the song with a rhythmic drive and vocal delivery that align with the stylistic elements of 1950s rock and roll, while still paying homage to the song’s big band and jazz origins.
Legacy and Influence
While not a major hit for Elvis, his recording of “Blueberry Hill” contributes to the song’s enduring legacy. The track has been covered by numerous artists across different genres, highlighting its timeless appeal. Elvis’s version stands as a reflection of his artistic range and his ability to reinterpret existing songs within his unique musical framework.
In summary, “Blueberry Hill” is a song that has traversed various musical landscapes since its inception in 1940. Elvis Presley’s 1957 rendition, featured on the “Loving You” album, exemplifies his talent for blending genres and reimagining classic tracks, contributing to the rich tapestry of mid-20th-century American music.