Introduction:
“Inherit the Wind” is a song performed by Elvis Presley, released in 1969 as part of his acclaimed album From Elvis in Memphis. This album marked an important chapter in Presley’s career, signaling his return to the studio with new creative energy after a decade largely dominated by film soundtracks. The track was recorded during sessions at American Sound Studio in Memphis, a legendary studio known for producing some of the finest soul, pop, and rock music of the time.
The song belongs to the genre of country soul, which blends elements of rhythm and blues, gospel, and traditional country music—a style that was prevalent throughout the From Elvis in Memphis album. Presley was experimenting with a more mature, contemporary sound, breaking away from the lighter, pop-oriented music of his earlier Hollywood years. Produced by Chips Moman, who played a significant role in the Memphis music scene, “Inherit the Wind” showcases Elvis’ evolution as a musician who was in touch with the changing landscape of popular music in the late 1960s.
Written by Eddie Rabbitt, an American singer-songwriter who would later become a country music star, “Inherit the Wind” is lyrically reflective, focusing on themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. The arrangement of the song, with its rich instrumentation including strings and brass, highlights Presley’s ability to fuse the soulful sounds of Memphis with his own vocal prowess.
While “Inherit the Wind” did not achieve the chart-topping success of other songs on the album like “Suspicious Minds” or “In the Ghetto,” it remains an important piece of Presley’s late 1960s catalog. From Elvis in Memphis was widely praised by critics and fans alike, revitalizing his career and solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in modern music history.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Inherit The Wind”
Baby don’t fall in love with me
I’ll only bring you grief
Baby, don’t set your heart on me
I’ll only have to leave‘Cause the north wind flows through my veins
Like my dad there’s a dream in my brain
In the morning I’ll have to leave again
That’s how it is when you inherit the wind
Inherit the windDaddy, he was a traveling man
I hardly knew his face
Momma, she cried for him at night
He never stayed in one place‘Cause the north wind flows through my veins
Like my dad there’s a dream in my brain
In the morning I’ll have to leave again
That’s how it is when you inherit the wind
Inherit the windOh I can’t give you the love you need
I just won’t be here that long
But if you still want me here tonight
I’ll love you till the break of dawn‘Cause the north wind flows through my veins
Like my dad there’s a dream in my brain
In the morning I’ll have to leave again
That’s how it is when you inherit the wind
Inherit the wind
Inherit the wind, inherit the wind