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Introduction:

Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, showcased his versatility beyond the energetic rhythms that defined his early career. In 1963, he released a track that delved into the complexities of love and dependency: “Please Don’t Drag That String Around”. This song, a departure from his typical upbeat fare, positioned Presley as a mature and nuanced artist, capable of delivering heart-wrenching ballads with equal prowess.

Crafted within the pop rock genre, the track marked a significant moment in Presley’s discography. While the song’s essence is rooted in emotional depth, it also bears the unmistakable imprint of Presley’s charismatic vocal style. The arrangement, though simpler than his rock ‘n’ roll anthems, is rich in instrumentation, providing a fitting backdrop for the song’s poignant message.

The creative minds behind “Please Don’t Drag That String Around” included the songwriting duo of Otis Blackwell and Winfield Scott. Their collaboration resulted in a lyrically evocative piece that resonated with audiences on a profound level. While the song did not achieve the same chart-topping success as some of Presley’s earlier hits, it remains a cherished gem in his extensive catalog, often praised for its emotional authenticity and Presley’s compelling vocal performance.

Through this ballad, Elvis Presley demonstrated his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. “Please Don’t Drag That String Around” stands as a testament to his enduring legacy as an artist who could effortlessly traverse various musical styles and evoke a wide range of emotions.

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Lyrics:

“Please Don’t Drag That String Around”

You like to keep me dangling on a string
‘Cause you know without you my life don’t mean a thingSo I beg you
Please don’t drag that string around, oh no
Well, what if it should break
Oh, tell me, what would I do then
Keep that string up off the ground
Oh, yeah, remember my heart is tied to the other end

Yes, I’m your puppet, my heart is in your hand
One twist of the wrist and I jump to your command

So I beg you
Please don’t drag that string around, oh no
Well, what if it should break
What would I do then
Baby, keep that string up off the ground
Oh, yeah, remember my heart is tied to the other end

I feel inside me, as sure as anything
One day I’ll mean more to you than a puppet on a string

So I beg you
Please don’t drag that string around, oh no
Well, what if it should break
Oh, tell me, what would I do then
Keep that string up off the ground
Oh, yeah, remember my heart is tied to the other end