Originally recorded by Mark James in 1968, “Suspicious Minds” didn’t get much attention until Elvis put his spin on it in 1969. James wrote the song about a troubled relationship, with themes of mistrust that hit a chord with listeners.
When Elvis recorded it, he infused it with deep emotion, creating a hit that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This song became a signature tune for Elvis and is often remembered as one of his most powerful performances, highlighting his talent for bringing raw feeling to complex songs.
“Blue Suede Shoes” was first recorded by Carl Perkins in 1955, and it quickly became a rock ‘n’ roll anthem. Perkins, a rockabilly pioneer, wrote the song about a phrase he’d heard from a fellow musician.
Elvis recorded his version in 1956, just as he was rising to fame. While Perkins’ original was a hit in its own right, Elvis’s energetic cover brought the song to an even wider audience, becoming a fan favorite and a quintessential rock ‘n’ roll classic that perfectly captured the spirit of the genre.
Willie “Big Mama” Thornton first recorded “Hound Dog” in 1952, giving it a bluesy, powerhouse delivery. Written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, it became a major R&B hit. Elvis recorded his version in 1956, transforming it into a rock ‘n’ roll smash that skyrocketed on the charts.
His lively, rebellious take gave the song new life, and it became one of his signature performances. While Thornton’s original is celebrated in blues circles, Elvis’s version made the song a global hit and solidified it as one of rock’s most iconic tracks.
“Crying in the Chapel” was first recorded by Darrell Glenn in 1953 and became a popular gospel song. Elvis recorded his version in 1960, though it wasn’t released until 1965.
His take on the song brought a gentle, spiritual quality that resonated with listeners, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Elvis’s heartfelt rendition struck a chord with fans and brought the song mainstream popularity, giving it new life as both a pop and gospel classic.
Originally recorded in 1927 by Charles Hart, “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” had a long history before Elvis recorded it in 1960. Several artists had tried their hand at it, but it was Elvis’s soulful rendition that gave the song its lasting legacy.
With its tender lyrics and spoken bridge, Elvis’s version became a No. 1 hit and a favorite among fans. His interpretation brought a new level of vulnerability and depth to the song, cementing it as one of the most memorable ballads of his career.
First recorded by Brenda Lee in 1972, “Always On My Mind” is a poignant song about regret and love lost. Elvis covered it later that year, adding his unique, heartfelt style to the track.
While Brenda Lee’s version is touching, Elvis’s soulful rendition has become a favorite for fans and is often seen as one of his most emotional performances. His cover, filled with longing, has kept this song close to the hearts of listeners over the years.
Originally recorded by Smiley Lewis in 1956 as “One Night of Sin,” this blues song was a bit too risqué for its time. Elvis recorded a cleaner version in 1957, which he titled simply “One Night,” and released it in 1958.
His passionate delivery made the song a hit, climbing up to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. Elvis brought a raw energy to the song, turning it into a classic that’s still remembered as one of his great rock ‘n’ roll performances.
Arthur Alexander recorded “Burning Love” in 1971, but it was Elvis’s 1972 version that turned it into a massive hit. Elvis brought his trademark energy to the song, making it one of his last big hits.
With its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, “Burning Love” became a fan favorite, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Elvis’s version added a level of fire and passion that helped the song become a rock staple.
First recorded by Les Paul and Mary Ford in 1953, “I Really Don’t Want to Know” is a melancholy tune about heartbreak. Elvis recorded his version in 1970, infusing it with a country flair.
His rendition brought a fresh depth to the song, making it a standout on his country albums. Elvis’s emotional delivery gave new life to the song, which became a hit and highlighted his versatility in blending genres.
Written by Mac Davis, “In the Ghetto” was recorded by Elvis in 1969. Davis wrote it as a commentary on poverty and social issues, and Elvis’s heartfelt performance gave it a powerful message.
This song marked a shift in Elvis’s music toward more socially conscious themes, and it became a top 10 hit. “In the Ghetto” resonated with audiences, proving that Elvis could use his music to shine a light on serious issues.
