Introduction:
“What’s She Really Like” is a song performed by Elvis Presley, featured on the soundtrack of his 1960 film “G.I. Blues.” The track was penned by songwriters Abner Silver and Sid Wayne, who collaborated on several songs for Presley during this period. Recording sessions for the “G.I. Blues” soundtrack took place between April 27 and May 6, 1960, at RCA Victor Studio C and Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. “What’s She Really Like” was recorded on April 28, 1960, with Presley delivering a smooth vocal performance that complemented the song’s mellow pop arrangement.
The “G.I. Blues” soundtrack marked a significant moment in Elvis’s career, as it was his first film and accompanying soundtrack released after his return from military service in March 1960. The album showcased a shift towards a more polished pop sound, aligning with the film’s light-hearted narrative set against a military backdrop. “What’s She Really Like” exemplifies this transition, featuring a laid-back melody and romantic lyrics that reflect the film’s themes.
Upon its release, the “G.I. Blues” soundtrack achieved substantial commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart and remained there for ten weeks, becoming one of the best-selling albums of 1961. The album’s popularity was bolstered by tracks like “Wooden Heart” and the title song “G.I. Blues,” which resonated with both longtime fans and a broader audience. While “What’s She Really Like” was not released as a single, it contributed to the overall appeal of the soundtrack, showcasing Elvis’s versatility as a vocalist capable of handling a range of musical styles.
In the context of Elvis’s discography, “What’s She Really Like” represents his ability to adapt to the evolving music landscape of the early 1960s. The song’s inclusion in “G.I. Blues” highlights his transition from the raw rock and roll of his early career to a more refined pop sensibility that would characterize much of his work in the ensuing decade. Today, the track remains a testament to Elvis’s enduring appeal and his talent for interpreting diverse musical genres.