Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s “The Girl of My Best Friend.” Released in 1960 on the landmark album Elvis Is Back!, this song is a prime example of Presley’s evolution as a vocalist and performer. While his early rock and roll hits had ignited a cultural firestorm, “The Girl of My Best Friend” showcased a maturing artist, one capable of delivering a powerful ballad brimming with complex emotions.
Composed by songwriting duo Beverly Ross and Sam Bobrick, the song falls squarely in the genre of pop rock. It’s a genre Elvis helped define, but “The Girl of My Best Friend” leans more towards the “pop” side, with a smooth melody and a prominent piano driving the rhythm section. However, don’t be fooled by the initial gentleness. Presley’s iconic voice, now richer and more controlled, simmers with a potent mix of longing, guilt, and frustration.
The lyrical theme of “The Girl of My Best Friend” is as timeless as heartbreak itself. The protagonist is hopelessly smitten with, you guessed it, the girlfriend of his best friend. The song chronicles his internal struggle: the irresistible attraction he feels for this woman intertwined with the loyalty he owes his friend. This moral dilemma wasn’t necessarily new territory for popular music, but Presley’s delivery elevates it. He doesn’t wallow in self-pity; there’s a palpable tension between his yearning and his sense of decency.
Elvis Is Back! marked Presley’s return to music after a two-year stint in the US Army. While he remained a cultural icon during his service, there were questions about his future in the music industry. “The Girl of My Best Friend” emphatically answered those doubts. The song became a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, further solidifying Presley’s status as a musical force to be reckoned with. It also showcased the influence of his gospel roots, with the backing vocals adding a layer of soulful depth to the arrangement.
The song’s producer, Shel Dudley, deserves recognition for his work on “The Girl of My Best Friend.” Dudley, a seasoned industry veteran, understood Presley’s strengths and crafted a soundscape that perfectly complemented the emotional weight of the lyrics. The arrangement is both sophisticated and restrained, allowing Presley’s voice to take center stage.
In conclusion, “The Girl of My Best Friend” is a pivotal song in Elvis Presley’s career. It showcases his artistic growth, his masterful vocal delivery, and his enduring influence on popular music. It’s a song about forbidden love, a relatable theme delivered with a captivating blend of vulnerability and raw emotion. So, put on your best blue suede shoes, crank up the volume, and prepare to be swept away by the King himself.