Do You Know?
The track “How Do You Think I Feel” was penned in 1956 by Otis Blackwell and Carl Perkins. Blackwell, known for his prolific songwriting, contributed significantly to Elvis Presley’s early hits, including “Don’t Be Cruel” and “All Shook Up.” Perkins, a renowned rockabilly singer and songwriter, was acclaimed for his dynamic live performances.
The inspiration for “How Do You Think I Feel” stemmed from Perkins’ personal heartbreak following his wife’s departure. The song was crafted during a session at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. Initially recorded by Perkins, it was later released as a single by Elvis Presley.
Elvis Presley recorded “How Do You Think I Feel” on September 10, 1956, at RCA Studio A in New York City. Produced by Steve Sholes, the track featured Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums.
Released on October 2, 1956, the song proved to be a commercial triumph, securing the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This achievement marked Presley’s third consecutive number-one single and also led the track to dominate the Billboard Country and Western chart.
The widespread popularity of “How Do You Think I Feel” in 1956 solidified Elvis Presley’s position as the preeminent rock and roll star globally. Even today, the song remains a preferred choice for karaoke enthusiasts and is frequently played at weddings and other special events.
Fascinatingly, the song was initially intended for R&B singer Etta James, yet it was redirected to Elvis Presley after James’s record label rejected it.
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Lyrics
How do you think I feel?
Well, I know your love’s not real
The girl I’m mad about is just a gadabout
How do you think I feel?How do you think we stand?
Well, I know you’ve made your plans
But you’ve included three
And that’s too much for me
How do you think I feel?
I won’t be true again
I know that I can’t win
So why should I pretend
That you still love me?How do you think I feel?
Well, I know your love’s not real
The one I’m mad about is just a gadabout
How do you think I feel?How do you think I feel?
Well, I know your love’s not real
The girl I’m mad about is just a gadabout
How do you think I feel?Well, how do you think we stand?
I know you’ve made your plans
Another’s pretty face
Has put me out of place
How do you think I feel?I won’t be true again
I know that I can’t win
So why should I pretend
That you still love me?How do you think I feel?
Well, I know your love’s not real
And you’ve included three
And that’s too much for me
How do you think I feel?