Make Me Know It – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

“Make Me Know It” was recorded by Elvis Presley on March 20, 1960, during one of his first sessions after returning from his military service. This track, written by Otis Blackwell, was included on the iconic Elvis Is Back! album, released on April 8, 1960. Blackwell, a renowned songwriter, had previously collaborated with Presley on hits like “Don’t Be Cruel” and “All Shook Up,” contributing to the distinct rhythm and blues-infused rock sound that marked many of Elvis’s early successes.

The recording of “Make Me Know It” took place at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville, with an impressive lineup of musicians. Elvis’s longtime guitarist, Scotty Moore, provided guitar along with Hank Garland on electric bass, while Bob Moore played the upright bass. D.J. Fontana and Buddy Harman handled the drums, and Floyd Cramer added his signature piano. The Jordanaires, Presley’s go-to backup vocalists, rounded out the sound, giving the track its vibrant energy. The song combines catchy rhythm with Elvis’s expressive vocal style, reflecting both his eagerness to reestablish himself in the music scene and his growing vocal maturity.

Released as the opening track of Elvis Is Back!, “Make Me Know It” helped to reassert Elvis’s dominance in pop music after his hiatus. The album itself was widely celebrated, regarded as a pivotal moment that showcased Elvis’s versatility and adaptability to various musical styles, from rock and blues to ballads and pop. This session, and this song in particular, represented Elvis’s confident return to recording, setting the stage for his career’s successful next phase.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Make Me Know It”