Early Mornin’ Rain – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Early Mornin’ Rain” is a folk song originally written and recorded by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot in 1966. Elvis Presley recorded his version of the song on March 15, 1971, and it was later included in his Elvis Now album, released in February 1972. Presley’s rendition of the song marked his foray into covering contemporary folk music, adding his signature sound to Lightfoot’s wistful melody.

Lightfoot’s “Early Mornin’ Rain” tells the story of longing and homesickness, themes that resonated deeply with audiences, including Elvis. With its soft, flowing acoustic arrangement, Presley’s version stays true to the reflective nature of the original, while showcasing his rich, emotive vocals. The song was part of his Nashville Marathon sessions, where he recorded a wide range of tracks in a few intensive days at RCA’s Studio B.

Though not one of Presley’s chart-topping hits, “Early Mornin’ Rain” achieved moderate success, peaking at #43 on the U.S. Pop chart and #45 on the Country chart. The song is often appreciated for its departure from Elvis’s typical rock and pop style, as he ventured into a more introspective, acoustic sound, in line with the folk revival of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Presley’s version of the song was later featured in the Elvis: Back in Nashville album, released in 2021, a compilation celebrating his Nashville recordings.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Early Mornin’ Rain”

In the early mornin’ rain
With a dollar in my hand
And an aching in my heart
And my pockets full of sandI’m a long ways from home
And I missed my loved one so
In the early mornin’ rain
With no place to go

Out on runway number nine
Big 707 set to go
Well, I’m out here on the grass
Where the pavement never grows

Where the liquor tasted good
And the women all were fast
There she goes my friend
She’s rolling out at last

Hear the mighty engines roar
(Hear the mighty engines roar )
See the silver wing on high
(See the silver wing on high )
She’s away and westward bound
For above the clouds she flies

Where the mornin’ rain don’t fall
And the sun always shines
She’ll be flying over my home
In about three hours time

This ol’ airport’s got me down
It’s no earthly good to me
‘Cause I’m stuck here on the ground
Cold and drunk as I might be

Can’t jump a jet plane
(Can’t jump a plane)
Like you can a freight train
(Like a freight train )
So I best be on my way
In the early mornin’ rain

So I best be on my way
In the early mornin’ rain
So I best be on my way
In the early mornin’ rain