Introduction:
“(You’re So Square) Baby I Don’t Care” is a song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957 for the soundtrack of his third film, Jailhouse Rock. The track was written by the prolific songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, who were instrumental in crafting several of Presley’s hits during the 1950s. The song was released on October 30, 1957, as part of the Jailhouse Rock EP.
Musically, “(You’re So Square) Baby I Don’t Care” is characterized by its rock and roll and rockabilly elements, genres that Presley was renowned for popularizing during that era. The song is notable for featuring Presley himself on electric bass, a rarity in his recordings. This contribution added a distinctive touch to the track’s rhythmic foundation.
In terms of chart performance, the song reached number 14 on the R&B charts. Although it was not released as a standalone single in the United States, its inclusion in the Jailhouse Rock EP contributed to the EP’s success, which peaked at number one on the newly established Billboard EP chart, maintaining that position for 28 weeks.
The song’s enduring appeal is evident through its numerous cover versions by various artists over the years. Notably, Buddy Holly included his rendition on his self-titled 1958 album, which reached number 12 on the UK singles chart in 1961. Other artists such as Joni Mitchell, Queen, and The Beatles have also performed or recorded their versions, showcasing the song’s versatility and lasting impact on popular music.
“(You’re So Square) Baby I Don’t Care” remains a testament to Elvis Presley’s influence in the rock and roll genre and highlights the collaborative synergy between Presley and the songwriting prowess of Leiber and Stoller.