Introduction:
“I Feel So Bad” is a blues song originally written and recorded by Chuck Willis in 1954. Willis’s rendition achieved notable success, reaching number eight on the Billboard Rhythm & Blues Chart.
Elvis Presley, renowned 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. Released as a single on May 2, 1961, Presley’s rendition showcased his distinctive blend of rock and roll infused with blues elements. The single achieved significant commercial success, reaching number five on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 15 on Billboard’s Top 20 R&B Singles chart in 1961. In the United Kingdom, it was released as a double A-side single alongside “Wild in the Country,” peaking at number four on the UK Singles Chart. As of August 2017, this single is ranked as Presley’s 38th best-selling single in the UK.
Presley’s interpretation of “I Feel So Bad” is distinguished by its energetic rhythm and his emotive vocal delivery, reflecting his deep appreciation for blues music. The recording features a robust arrangement with prominent guitar riffs and a driving rhythm section, elements that were instrumental in Presley’s ability to bridge the gap between traditional blues and mainstream rock and roll.
The song’s enduring appeal is further evidenced by subsequent cover versions from various artists. Blues singer Little Milton released a soul-infused rendition titled “Feel So Bad” in 1967, which climbed to number seven on the R&B chart and number 91 on the pop chart. Additionally, the band Cactus included their version on their 1971 album “One Way… or Another,” and artists like Foghat, Delbert McClinton, and Rory Gallagher have also offered their interpretations, each bringing a unique style to the classic blues number.
“I Feel So Bad” exemplifies the cross-pollination of musical genres during the mid-20th century, highlighting how artists like Elvis Presley drew inspiration from rhythm and blues to create a sound that resonated with a broad audience. Presley’s rendition not only paid homage to Chuck Willis’s original composition but also contributed to the song’s legacy within the canon of American popular music.