Elvis Presley was the King of Rock 'n' Roll. He sang gospel beautifully. But he also had a country music repertoire as well. In 1998, Elvis was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Its web site states, "...[H[e was a strong influence on country music and a force on the country charts for his entire career."
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In addition, the outlet mentions another important fact, namely that "...Presley opened the door for younger country singers, such as Marty Robbins, Sonny James, and Johnny Cash, to reach a wider market."
Elvis seemed to be able to change genres and perform them all with remarkable ease and convincing prowess. Not all of his country songs are well-known, however. We are glad to shine a spotlight on some of Elvis's more obscure country tunes to bring out his versatility and vocal mastery. The King lives on!
'Blue Moon of Kentucky' (1954)
Elvis recorded this song at a key juncture in his career. Per the Library of Congress, he just inked a deal with Sun Records. "Then, Presley (on acoustic guitar and vocals), backed by Scotty Moore (electric guitar) and Bill Black (upright acoustic bass), set about recording their first single." When I listen to this song, with its infectious beat and enjoyably hectic pace, I can't help but think of Elvis's massive rock 'n' roll triumphs to come.
'I Forgot To Remember To Forget' (1955)
Per thebeatles.com, "'I Forgot to Remember to Forget' is a country song written by Stan Kesler and Charlie Feathers. It was recorded at Sun Studio on July 11, 1955, by Elvis Presley, Scotty Moore, Bill Black, and Johnny Bernero on drums, and released on August 20, 1955...." A slew of famous singers recorded this tune, among them the Beatles, Jerry Lee Lewis, B.J. Thomas, and Chris Isaak.
Most of us are so acclimated to hearing Elvis rocking a song that hearing him do country is quite a switch. Nevertheless, he performed this tune with the flair of a seasoned country music pro. He seems totally at ease and in command. That was the magic Elvis brought to just about every piece of music he performed or recorded.
'Just Call Me Lonesome' (1967)
This song is on the soundtrack from Elvis's film Clambake, his 25th movie. Eddy Arnold recorded it 12 years before; many other singers did it too, including Jim Reeves, Ernest Tubb, and Ray Price. But Elvis made it special. Although the film was pretty much the standard formulaic romp that he became known for in Hollywood, the song packs plenty of authentic country twang.
'You Asked Me To' (1973)
From Elvis's album Promised Land, this track was co-written by Waylon Jennings. It was recorded by Elvis in 1973 and released two years later. This is pure, unadulterated country. In Elvis's hands, it shines. The great guitar work adds to the splendid effect. Little did anyone know that the King would be gone by 1977.
