What’s She Really Like – Elvis Presley

Introduction:

Elvis Presley was a musical phenomenon whose influence and charisma transcended multiple genres, leaving an indelible mark on American culture. His song, “What’s She Really Like,” is one of the lesser-known yet poignant tracks that showcases his versatility and artistry. Released in 1960 as part of the soundtrack for the film G.I. Blues, this song belongs to the pop and rock and roll genres but also carries traces of the crooning style that Elvis was beginning to incorporate into his repertoire during this period.

By 1960, Elvis Presley had already solidified his place as the “King of Rock and Roll.” His fame was soaring, and his return to the music scene after a two-year stint in the U.S. Army was eagerly anticipated by his fans. With G.I. Blues, Elvis not only proved that his popularity hadn’t waned but also demonstrated his ability to blend musical styles. “What’s She Really Like” fits into this context as a smooth, ballad-esque number that provides a softer, more intimate side of Elvis compared to his earlier, more energetic rock tracks.

The song was produced by Joseph Lilley, who worked extensively on Elvis’ movie soundtracks during this time. Lilley’s approach to the production of this song was to give it a lush, orchestral feel, leaning on strings and brass to provide depth. This was a departure from the more guitar-heavy arrangements that defined Elvis’ early rockabilly hits. The instrumentation and Elvis’ vocals combine to create a wistful, almost romantic tone. Lilley’s collaboration with Presley in G.I. Blues was crucial in shaping the soundtrack’s overall vibe, helping Elvis transition smoothly into the early 1960s.

“What’s She Really Like” was written by Sid Wayne and Abner Silver, both prolific songwriters in the era of Tin Pan Alley and Hollywood soundtracks. Their songwriting for Elvis blended traditional pop melodies with his unique voice, creating a seamless mix of his signature style with the more polished, studio-based soundscapes of film music. While this track didn’t reach the same commercial heights as other singles from the movie, such as “Wooden Heart” or “G.I. Blues,” it remains a beloved deep cut for Elvis aficionados.

Although the song didn’t chart on its own, its inclusion in G.I. Blues, which became one of Elvis’ most successful films, certainly contributed to its legacy. The film’s soundtrack reached number one on the Billboard Pop Album Chart and stayed there for 10 weeks, becoming one of the best-selling albums of Elvis’ career. Songs like “What’s She Really Like” helped demonstrate his adaptability as a performer, offering audiences a taste of his softer, more contemplative side.

By the time Elvis recorded this track, he was evolving as an artist, exploring more ballad-driven and cinematic songs that reflected his maturity. “What’s She Really Like” serves as a transitional piece in his catalog, where fans could hear his voice beginning to mature, blending his early rock energy with the romantic stylings that would become more prominent in his later work.

In summary, “What’s She Really Like” stands as a key example of Elvis Presley’s depth as an artist, encapsulating a moment in time when he was branching out into new musical territory. Though it’s not one of his most commercially successful songs, its importance lies in its demonstration of his versatility and enduring appeal.

Video:

Lyrics:

“What’s She Really Like”
(from “G.I. Blues” soundtrack)

What’s she really like
The girl that you see me with
What’s she really like
The one I’m so dreamy with
Well, let me tell you she’s wonderful
She’s marvelous and she’s mineTold here that her lips, her lips are so thrillable
I can’t describe her kiss in words of one syllable
She’s even more than desirable
And what’s moreable she’s mineWhat’s she really like
The girl I go on about
What’s she really like
The one I’m so mad about
All I can say, she’s wonderful
She’s marvelous and she’s mine

You’re asking if she loves me
Well, you don’t know the half
You’re wondering if she’ll leave me
Ha, ha, ha, don’t make me laugh

What’s she really like
The girl I go on about
What’s she really like
The one I’m so gone about

All I can say, she’s wonderful
She’s marvelous and she’s mine