Introduction:
“Moody Blue,” a classic track by Elvis Presley, was recorded in February 1976 at Graceland’s Jungle Room and released as a single in November 1976. Written by Mark James, who also penned Presley’s hit “Suspicious Minds,” the song blends elements of country and pop, featuring a distinctive rhythmic drive and a lush orchestral arrangement. Its release came during a transitional phase in Presley’s career, marked by his declining health and increasingly sporadic studio recordings.
The song was initially met with commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Country Chart and breaking into the Top 40 on the Pop Chart. Its popularity was bolstered by Presley’s enduring appeal and its placement as the title track on his final studio album, Moody Blue, released in 1977. Tragically, the album was released just a month before his untimely death in August of that year.
“Moody Blue” holds historical significance as one of the last significant hits of Presley’s career. It showcased his ability to adapt to contemporary musical trends while staying true to his roots. The track is often celebrated for its polished production and Presley’s emotive vocal delivery, capturing the spirit of an artist who continued to connect with his audience even in challenging times.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Moody Blue”
Bettin’ on the number
That changes ev’ry time
Well, you think you’re gonna win
Think she’s givin’ in
A stranger’s all you find
Yeah, it’s hard to figure out
What she’s all about
That she’s a woman through and through
She’s a complicated lady, so color my baby moody blue,Oh, Moody blue
Tell me am I gettin’ through
I keep hangin’ on
Try to learn the song
But I never do
Oh, Moody blue,
Tell me who I’m talkin’ to
You’re like the night and day
And it’s hard to say
Which one is you.
Well, when Monday comes she’s Tuesday,
When Tuesday comes she’s Wednesday,
Into another day again
Her personality unwinds
Just like a ball of twine
On a spool that never ends
Just when I think I know her well
Her emotions reveal,
She’s not the person that
I though I knew
She’s a complicated lady, so color my baby moody blue,
Oh, Moody blue
Tell me am I gettin’ through
I keep hangin’ on
Try to learn the song
But I never do
Oh, Moody blue,
Tell me who I’m talkin’ to
You’re like the night and day
And it’s hard to say
Which one is you.