Elvis Presley – Wearin’ That Loved On Look

Introduction:

Alright, folks, gather ’round and let’s delve into a gem from the King himself, Elvis Presley. Released in 1969, “Wearin’ That Loved On Look” isn’t your typical Elvis rocker. This track arrived during a particularly dynamic period for the King. The mid-to-late 1960s saw him return to his roots in Memphis, Tennessee, after a string of Hollywood musicals. He set up shop at American Sound Studio, a humble yet electrifying space where he reconnected with the raw, soulful energy of his early Sun Records days.

This Memphis comeback period produced some of Elvis’ most critically acclaimed work. He wasn’t chasing trends; he was channeling pure, unadulterated R&B and gospel influences. “Wearin’ That Loved On Look” embodies this shift. The songwriters, Dallas Frazier and A.L. “Doodle” Owens, were Nashville veterans known for their country compositions. But in Elvis’ hands, the song transcends genre. It becomes a swampy, soulful blues number simmering with suspicion and a touch of Memphis swagger.

On the production side, the magic touch belongs to Chips Moman. Moman, alongside engineer Tommy Cogbill, was a key architect of the American Sound Studio sound. They favored a stripped-down, live-in-the-studio approach, capturing the raw energy of the musicians. This philosophy is evident in “Wearin’ That Loved On Look”. The infectious rhythm section, anchored by a thumping bass line and Gene Chrisman’s steady drumming, lays the foundation. Then, there’s the guitar work. Listen closely, and you’ll hear not just one, but two distinct guitar parts. The first, played by the legendary Reggie Young, delivers a twangy, country-tinged melody. The second, courtesy of Elvis himself, adds a layer of bluesy grit. This interplay between country and blues is what gives the song its unique character.

But of course, the heart and soul of “Wearin’ That Loved On Look” is Elvis himself. We hear a different Elvis here compared to his earlier, more playful persona. His voice is deeper, more world-weary, yet still retains that unmistakable smooth charisma. He inhabits the lyrics with a mix of playful suspicion and simmering anger. The song opens with a now-iconic line: “Baby, you’re wearin’ that loved on look.” Elvis delivers it with a knowing wink in his voice, setting the stage for a narrative that unfolds with a wink and a nudge.

“Wearin’ That Loved On Look” wasn’t a chart-topping smash hit, but its influence and critical acclaim have grown over the years. It’s a testament to Elvis’ artistic evolution, showcasing his ability to blend genres and deliver a song that’s both catchy and emotionally resonant. So, put on your blue suede shoes, crank up the volume, and let the King take you on a Memphis soul journey with “Wearin’ That Loved On Look”.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Wearin’ That Loved On Look”