Introduction:
“My Happiness” holds a unique and pivotal place in the history of popular music, particularly within the narrative of Elvis Presley’s legendary career. It’s not just a song; it’s a historical artifact, a tangible link to the very genesis of a cultural icon. Here’s a deeper look into its history:
Origins of the Song:
- Before Presley’s rendition, “My Happiness” was a popular song published in 1948. It was written by Betty Peterson Blasco and Borney Bergantine.
- The song gained significant traction through recordings by various artists, notably Jon and Sondra Steele, and Ella Fitzgerald, becoming a popular standard of the era.
Elvis Presley’s Landmark Recording:
- In July 1953, the then 18-year-old Elvis Presley walked into the Memphis Recording Service, which would later become the famed Sun Studio, owned by Sam Phillips.
- For a personal fee, Presley recorded “My Happiness” and “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” on an acetate disc.
- The widely accepted story is that Presley intended the recording as a gift for his mother, Gladys Presley.
- It is said that because the Presley family did not own a record player, that Elvis went to a friends house, Ed Leek, to listen to the recording.
- The recording was then left at the Leek home.
- This session is considered Presley’s very first recording, predating his formal entry into the music industry.
- The genre of the song is generally considered a pop standard, with Presley’s rendition carrying hints of the blues and country influences that would define his early style.
Historical Significance and Legacy:
- The acetate disc of “My Happiness” became a highly prized artifact, symbolizing the humble beginnings of a musical revolution.
- In 2015, the disc was auctioned at Graceland, where it sold for $300,000 to musician Jack White, underscoring its historical and cultural value.
- Third Man Records, owned by Jack White, then re-released the recording for record store day, in order to share this historical recording with the world.
- This recording is not associated to any formal Elvis Presley album release, because it was a private recording.
- The importance of this recording is that it is the very first recorded music by Elvis Presley.
- It serves as a window into the raw talent and early aspirations of a young man who would forever change the landscape of popular music.
In essence, “My Happiness” is more than just a song; it’s a foundational piece of rock ‘n’ roll history, capturing a moment in time before Elvis Presley became “The King.”
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