Elvis Presley – Never Been To Spain

Introduction:

Elvis Presley has long been regarded as one of the most influential figures in rock ‘n’ roll history, and his rendition of “Never Been to Spain” stands as a testament to his musical versatility. Originally written by Hoyt Axton, the song was first popularized by the band Three Dog Night in 1971. However, Elvis’ unique interpretation of the song, recorded live in 1972 and later featured on his album Elvis: As Recorded at Madison Square Garden, showcases his ability to take a track and imbue it with his signature style.

The genre of “Never Been to Spain” falls squarely into the rock and country rock realm, but Elvis’ version pulls in elements of his hallmark blues and gospel influences. Elvis had a way of melding different musical traditions, making them his own and bringing a powerful emotional depth to each performance. His voice on this track—rich, commanding, and full of energy—captivates listeners and elevates the song to new heights.

The musicians involved in this recording further enhance its quality. James Burton, who played lead guitar for Presley during this period, is a standout. His crisp and dynamic guitar work is a driving force in the live performance. Burton was one of the era’s most respected session guitarists, and his intricate but powerful riffs fit seamlessly with Elvis’ vocal delivery. Additionally, Ronnie Tutt on drums, Jerry Scheff on bass, and Glen D. Hardin on piano provided the backbone of Presley’s live band during the early ’70s. These musicians were key to the magic of Elvis’ live performances, and their cohesive sound is on full display in “Never Been to Spain.”

On the production side, the legendary Felton Jarvis handled the overall sound, ensuring that Elvis’ voice remained front and center while also highlighting the tight musicianship of his band. Jarvis had been working with Presley since 1966 and was instrumental in producing some of the King’s later recordings. Under Jarvis’ direction, the live recording at Madison Square Garden maintained a balance between spontaneity and precision—a hallmark of Presley’s live shows at the time.

While “Never Been to Spain” didn’t achieve the massive commercial success of some of Elvis’ other hits, it still remains a notable achievement within his live performance catalog. The song was part of his regular setlist during the early ’70s, particularly when he was performing in Las Vegas and on tour across the United States. Fans of Elvis regard this track as a hidden gem, reflecting his ability to reinterpret and breathe life into songs that weren’t originally his.

Critically, the live version of “Never Been to Spain” has earned praise over the years for its energy and the way it encapsulates Elvis’ command of the stage. Elvis’ version of the song showcases not only his vocal prowess but also his instinctive feel for rhythm and timing—qualities that helped him dominate the music scene for decades.

In conclusion, Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Never Been to Spain” exemplifies his unparalleled ability to transform a song into something uniquely his own. With its blend of rock, country, blues, and gospel influences, backed by an exceptional group of musicians and produced by Felton Jarvis, this song continues to resonate with fans and music connoisseurs alike. It may not have topped the charts, but in the broader context of Elvis’ career, it serves as a reminder of his enduring talent and versatility.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Never Been To Spain”

Well I’ve never been to Spain
But I kind of like the music
Say the ladies are insane there
And they sure know how to use it
They don’t abuse it
Never going to lose it
I can’t refuse itWell, I’ve never been to England
But I kind of like the Beatles
So I headed for Las Vegas
Only made it out to Needles
Can you feel it
Must be weary
Oh so good oh feel so good

Well I’ve never been to heaven
But I’ve been in Oklahoma
Well, they tell me I was born there
But I really don’t remember
In Oklahoma or Arizona
What does it matter
What does it matter