Introduction:
“Suppose” is a poignant ballad recorded by Elvis Presley, reflecting his ability to convey deep emotion through music. Written by Sylvia Dee and George Goehring, the song was initially recorded on June 20, 1967, at MGM Studios in Hollywood, California, during sessions for the film “Speedway.” Although intended for the movie, “Suppose” was ultimately excluded from the film’s final cut but found its place as a bonus track on the “Speedway” soundtrack album, released on May 20, 1968.
Musically, “Suppose” is characterized by its gentle melody and introspective lyrics, fitting within the pop and easy-listening genres. The arrangement is understated, allowing Presley’s emotive vocal delivery to take center stage. The song’s contemplative nature addresses themes of love, loss, and the hypothetical scenarios of life without a loved one.
The recording features notable musicians, including guitarists Chip Young, Tommy Tedesco, and Tiny Timbrell; bassist Bob Moore; drummers Buddy Harman and D.J. Fontana; pianists Larry Muhoberac and Charlie Hodge; steel guitarist Pete Drake; saxophonist Boots Randolph; trumpeter Charlie McCoy; and backing vocals by The Jordanaires. This ensemble of talented artists contributed to the song’s rich yet subtle musical landscape, complementing Presley’s heartfelt performance.
Despite its heartfelt performance, “Suppose” did not achieve significant commercial success upon its release. The “Speedway” soundtrack album, which featured the song as a bonus track, was among the lower-selling albums in Presley’s career, peaking at number 82 on the Billboard 200 chart. The lack of promotion and its placement as a bonus track likely contributed to its limited exposure.
Over time, “Suppose” has been regarded as a hidden gem within Elvis Presley’s extensive catalog. Its lyrical depth and the intimate vocal expression showcase Presley’s versatility as an artist, highlighting his ability to convey deep emotion and connect with listeners on a personal level. While it may not have gained the widespread acclaim of some of his more prominent hits, “Suppose” remains a testament to Presley’s talent and his knack for bringing life to even the most understated pieces of music in his collection.
In later years, the song has drawn interest due to its thematic similarities to John Lennon’s “Imagine.” Both songs explore hypothetical scenarios and begin with a single repeated word—”suppose” and “imagine,” respectively. While there is no concrete evidence to suggest that “Suppose” directly inspired Lennon’s composition, the parallels have been a topic of discussion among music enthusiasts. Some fans have suggested this song may have inspired John Lennon’s utopian anthem “Imagine.” The evidence for this view includes both songs featuring a singer contemplating hypothetical scenarios, with many lines beginning with a single repeated word—”suppose” or “imagine.” Additionally, the phrase “it’s impossible to imagine” is actually used in one verse of “Suppose.” The timeline doesn’t rule it out: “Suppose” was recorded in the summer of 1967, while “Imagine” was recorded and released in 1971. However, without direct confirmation, this connection remains speculative.
“Suppose” stands as a reflective and emotive piece in Elvis Presley’s discography. Its contemplative lyrics and understated arrangement allow Presley’s vocal prowess to shine, offering listeners a glimpse into his more introspective side. Though it did not achieve significant commercial success, the song remains a cherished track among fans and a testament to Presley’s artistic range. Its inclusion in various compilations over the years has allowed new audiences to discover and appreciate this understated yet powerful performance.