Introduction:
“Western Union” is a song recorded by Elvis Presley on May 27, 1963, at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville. The track was penned by the prolific songwriting duo Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, who contributed numerous songs to Presley’s catalog.
The recording session featured a lineup of esteemed musicians:
- Guitarists: Grady Martin, Harold Bradley, Jerry Kennedy, and Scotty Moore
- Bass: Bob Moore
- Drums: D.J. Fontana and Buddy Harman
- Piano: Floyd Cramer
- Saxophone, Vibes, and Shakers: Boots Randolph
- Backing Vocals: Millie Kirkham and The Jordanaires
Despite being recorded in 1963, “Western Union” was not released until May 20, 1968, when it appeared as a bonus track on the “Speedway” soundtrack album.
This delay meant that by the time of its release, the song’s early ’60s pop style seemed somewhat outdated, especially amidst the rapidly evolving musical landscape of the late ’60s.
The song’s lyrics narrate the story of a man attempting to reconcile with his estranged lover by sending a telegram through Western Union, expressing his remorse and desire to mend their relationship.
The upbeat tempo and catchy melody are reminiscent of Presley’s earlier hit “Return to Sender,” which also revolves around communication themes.
Critics and fans have offered mixed reviews of “Western Union.” Some appreciate its fun and lighthearted nature, while others view it as a lesser counterpart to “Return to Sender.” The song’s late release, coupled with its dated sound, likely contributed to its relative obscurity in Presley’s discography.
In retrospect, “Western Union” serves as an example of the challenges Presley faced during the mid-1960s, a period marked by a demanding film schedule and an abundance of soundtrack recordings. While it may not stand out as one of his most memorable tracks, it offers insight into the musical styles and themes that characterized a significant portion of his career during that era.