It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin’” is a poignant ballad famously covered by Elvis Presley, featured on his celebrated 1969 album From Elvis in Memphis. Originally written and recorded by Johnny Tillotson in 1962, the song became a major hit for Tillotson, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Country charts. Elvis’s rendition, recorded on February 20, 1969, at the American Sound Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, showcases his distinctive vocal prowess and emotional depth.

This track exemplifies the blending of country and soul influences that defined From Elvis in Memphis, an album widely regarded as a creative renaissance for Elvis. The recording session brought together a host of talented musicians, including guitarist Reggie Young, bassist Tommy Cogbill, and drummer Gene Chrisman, alongside a brass and vocal ensemble that enhanced the track’s rich sound.

The song’s theme revolves around heartbreak and enduring emotional pain, a subject that resonated deeply with Elvis’s expressive style. His performance added a unique layer of sincerity, making it a standout in his discography. The song’s production, spearheaded by Chips Moman, marked a departure from Elvis’s earlier, more commercial work, aligning instead with the raw and authentic energy of the Memphis Sound.

Elvis’s interpretation of “It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin’” remains a testament to his ability to reimagine and breathe new life into existing material. The song, along with the rest of the From Elvis in Memphis album, solidified his place as a versatile artist capable of transcending musical boundaries​.

Video:

Lyrics:

“It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin'”