Introduction:
“My Happiness” is a song that holds a significant place in music history, particularly due to its association with Elvis Presley. Originally composed in 1933 by Borney Bergantine, with lyrics by Betty Peterson Blasco, the song gained popularity in the late 1940s through various artists’ renditions. However, it is perhaps best known as the first song ever recorded by Elvis Presley in 1953, marking the inception of a legendary career that would transform the landscape of popular music.
Origins and Early Popularity
The melody of “My Happiness” was initially crafted by Borney Bergantine in 1933, but it wasn’t until 1948 that the song, with lyrics by Betty Peterson Blasco, was published and began to capture public attention. The earliest known recording was made in December 1947 by the Marlin Sisters. In 1948, the song achieved significant commercial success with multiple artists. Jon and Sondra Steele’s version reached number two on the charts, the Pied Pipers’ rendition peaked at number three, and Ella Fitzgerald’s a cappella version climbed to number six. These recordings solidified “My Happiness” as a pop standard of the time.
Elvis Presley’s First Recording
In July 1953, an 18-year-old Elvis Presley walked into the Memphis Recording Service, operated by Sam Phillips, to record a two-sided acetate disc. Presley paid $3.98 to record “My Happiness” and “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin.” This session was not intended for commercial release but served as a personal recording, possibly as a gift for his mother or as an audition to showcase his vocal abilities. Marion Keisker, Sam Phillips’ assistant, was present during this session and is credited with recognizing Presley’s potential, noting that he was a “good ballad singer.”
The Journey of the Original Acetate
After recording the acetate, Presley took it to his friend Ed Leek’s home to listen to it, as his own family did not own a record player. Presley inadvertently left the record at Leek’s house, where it remained for decades. In January 2015, this original acetate was auctioned at Graceland and sold for $300,000 to an undisclosed internet buyer. The sale underscored the historical significance of the recording as the genesis of Presley’s illustrious career.
Genre and Musical Style
“My Happiness” is characterized as a pop ballad, reflecting the musical styles prevalent in the late 1940s and early 1950s. The song’s structure and melody align with the traditional pop genre, featuring sentimental lyrics and a smooth, melodic line. Presley’s rendition, while staying true to the song’s original style, also hints at the emotive delivery that would become a hallmark of his later performances.
Achievements and Legacy
While Presley’s recording of “My Happiness” was not released commercially during his lifetime, its significance lies in its role as his first-ever recording, marking the beginning of a monumental career in music. The song itself enjoyed considerable success in the late 1940s, with multiple artists’ versions charting simultaneously—a testament to its widespread appeal. Connie Francis’s 1958 rendition also became a major hit, reaching number two on the charts and reaffirming the song’s enduring popularity.
In summary, “My Happiness” is more than just a pop ballad from the mid-20th century; it represents a pivotal moment in music history as the first recording of Elvis Presley. This initial foray into recording laid the foundation for Presley’s transformative impact on music and culture, making “My Happiness” a song of enduring historical significance.