Introduction:
“I Feel So Bad” is a blues song originally written and recorded by Chuck Willis in 1954. Willis’s rendition achieved significant success, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Rhythm & Blues Chart.
Elvis Presley, known for his ability to reinterpret and popularize existing songs, recorded his version of “I Feel So Bad” on March 12, 1961, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee.
Presley was reportedly fond of the song’s bluesy rhumba rhythm, which aligned well with his musical style.
Released as a single on May 2, 1961, with “Wild in the Country” as the B-side, Presley’s rendition of “I Feel So Bad” garnered considerable acclaim. It peaked at number 5 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reached number 15 on Billboard’s Top 20 R&B Singles chart. In the United Kingdom, the single achieved a peak position of number 4 on the UK Singles Chart.
The song’s lyrics express a deep sense of regret and longing, themes that resonated with audiences and showcased Presley’s emotive vocal delivery. The arrangement features a blend of blues and rock and roll elements, highlighting Presley’s versatility as an artist.
“I Feel So Bad” has been covered by various artists over the years, including Little Milton, whose 1967 soul blues version titled “Feel So Bad” reached number 7 on the R&B chart and number 91 on the pop chart. Other notable covers include renditions by Cactus, Foghat, Delbert McClinton, and Rory Gallagher, each bringing their unique style to the classic blues track.