Introduction:
Elvis built his career in the 1950s, a time of booming rockabilly and sultry ballads. Think swinging hips, greased-back hair, and a sound that had the whole nation, particularly the younger generation, in a frenzy. His music was a potent cocktail of blues, country, and gospel, a sound that defied categorization and forever changed the landscape of American music.
So, where does “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” fit in all this? Well, buckle up, because we’re taking a little detour into the 1970s. By this time, Elvis’ career had undergone several transformations. He’d stormed Hollywood, served in the military, and returned to the stage with his legendary ’68 Comeback Special. The sound had matured, the ballads became more soulful, and the swagger, well, that never left the building.
Enter “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”. Released in 1980, this little ditty might surprise some Elvis fans. It’s a far cry from the raw energy of “Hound Dog” or the smoldering intensity of “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Instead, we have a playful, rockabilly-inspired tune with a healthy dose of 1970s pop sensibilities thrown in for good measure.
Now, here’s the interesting part. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” wasn’t even an Elvis original. It was penned by Freddie Mercury, the flamboyant frontman of the British rock band Queen. Apparently, Mercury wrote the song in a mere ten minutes, drawing inspiration from the works of early rock and roll pioneers like Buddy Holly. The story goes that Queen shelved the song initially, not quite feeling it fit their signature sound.
But fate, as they say, had other plans. The track eventually landed in the hands of Elvis’ producer, Felton Jarvis. Jarvis, recognizing a potential hit, presented it to the King. Elvis, ever the showman, took to the song with gusto, injecting it with his own inimitable charisma. The result? A chart-topping sensation. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” became Elvis’s last number one single in the United States, a testament to his enduring popularity and his ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape.
So, while “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” might not be the quintessential Elvis Presley song, it stands as a fascinating chapter in his remarkable career. It’s a playful wink to his rockabilly roots, a testament to his versatility, and a reminder that even the King of Rock and Roll could fall for a catchy tune, no matter its origin.