Elvis Presley – It Feels So Right

While Elvis never truly went away during his military service (his 1958 compilation album, King Creole, held the number one spot for two weeks!), there was a certain uncertainty about his return. Would he pick up where he left off? Would his sound evolve? “It Feels So Right” emphatically answered those questions.

The song itself is a delightful blend of genres. The foundation is pure rockabilly, Elvis’s bread and butter in the mid-50s. Scotty Moore’s iconic fingerpicking guitar style is unmistakable, laying down a driving rhythm section that’s further anchored by the steady thump of D.J. Fontana’s drums. But there’s a subtle shift here. The piano, played by the legendary Floyd Cramer, adds a touch of sophistication, hinting at the broader musical palette Elvis would explore in the coming years.

The songwriting duo of Fred Wise and Ben Weisman crafted a perfect vehicle for Elvis’s charisma. The lyrics are simple and direct, celebrating the joy and electricity of new love. Lines like “Everything seems to be going my way” and “It feels so right, baby, having you near” capture that exhilarating feeling of being swept off your feet. But it’s Elvis’s vocal delivery that truly elevates the song.

Emerging from his army stint, there’s a newfound maturity in Elvis’s voice. He still possesses that raw, youthful energy that made him a star, but there’s also a newfound depth and control. He effortlessly glides between smooth crooning and soulful shouts, imbuing the song with a playful seduction that’s impossible to resist. The backing vocals by The Jordanaires, a staple in Elvis’s recordings, add a touch of gospel flair, further enriching the sonic tapestry.

“It Feels So Right” wasn’t just a successful comeback single. It became a fan favorite, a staple of Elvis’s live shows, and even found a new audience when it was featured in the 1965 film “Tickle Me.” More importantly, it marked the beginning of a new era for the King. He would continue to experiment and evolve throughout the 60s, but the core elements established in “It Feels So Right” – the raw rockabilly energy, the smooth vocals, and the willingness to explore new sounds – would remain the hallmarks of his enduring legacy. So, when you hit play on “It Feels So Right,” you’re not just listening to a catchy song; you’re witnessing the triumphant return of a legend, ready to conquer the music world once again.