Introduction:
“That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” is a poignant ballad that has traversed decades, finding resonance with audiences through its heartfelt lyrics and emotive melodies. Originally penned in 1937 by Fred Fisher, William Raskin, and Billy Hill, the song was first recorded and released that same year by Shep Fields and His Rippling Rhythm Orchestra. However, it was the 1941 rendition by The Ink Spots that propelled the song into mainstream popularity, embedding it into the fabric of American music history.
Elvis Presley’s association with “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” is both significant and sentimental. On July 18, 1953, a young Presley, then an unknown aspiring musician, walked into the Memphis Recording Service—home to Sun Studio—and paid $3.98 to record a two-sided acetate disc. On one side, he sang “My Happiness,” and on the other, “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin.” This recording was a personal endeavor, intended as a gift for his mother, Gladys. This moment is often regarded as a pivotal point in Presley’s early career, marking his first known studio recording.
Presley’s professional rendition of the song came a few years later. In January 1957, during a session at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, he revisited “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin.” This studio version was released on March 22, 1957, as the B-side to the chart-topping single “All Shook Up.” While “All Shook Up” dominated the charts, “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” also garnered attention, showcasing Presley’s versatility in handling both upbeat rock and roll tracks and soulful ballads.
Musically, “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” is rooted in the traditional pop and ballad genres. Its structure and lyrical content reflect the sentimental style prevalent in the late 1930s and 1940s, focusing on themes of love, loss, and longing. Presley’s interpretation infused the song with his unique vocal stylings, blending his southern charm with the emotive depth required by the ballad, thereby bridging the gap between classic pop sensibilities and the emerging rock and roll movement.
The song’s achievements are intertwined with Presley’s rise to stardom. While it may not have achieved standalone chart-topping success, its inclusion as the B-side to “All Shook Up” meant it reached a wide audience during a peak period in Presley’s career. Moreover, the song holds a special place in music history as part of Presley’s first-ever recording in 1953, symbolizing the humble beginnings of a man who would soon become the “King of Rock and Roll.”
In summary, “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” is more than just a song; it’s a narrative thread that weaves through the early tapestry of Elvis Presley’s life and career. From a personal recording for his mother to a professionally produced track shared with millions, the song encapsulates the emotional depth and musical versatility that would come to define Presley’s legacy.