Introduction:
Nestled amidst the sunshine-drenched melodies and island rhythms of Elvis Presley’s 1966 film soundtrack, “Datin'” emerges as a vibrant gem, a throwback to the doo-wop stylings that captivated American teenagers in the early 1950s. While Elvis had cemented his status as a rock and roll icon by the mid-60s, “Datin'” serves as a playful detour, a nostalgic nod to the genre that initially propelled him to stardom.
Released as part of the soundtrack for the movie Paradise, Hawaiian Style, the song was co-written by songwriting duo Sid Wayne and Sherman Edwards. Though not credited on the record, producer Hal B. Wallis played a significant role in shaping the film’s musical direction. Wallis, known for his work on classic films like “Casablanca” and “The Godfather,” likely recognized the nostalgic appeal “Datin'” would hold for Elvis’s established fanbase while simultaneously introducing him to a younger generation.
“Datin'” boasts a quintessential doo-wop structure. The song opens with a gentle handclapping rhythm, joined by a warm bass line and a cascading piano melody that evokes a carefree summer evening. Lush backing vocals, a hallmark of the genre, weave throughout the track, providing a rich harmonic tapestry. Elvis himself adopts a smooth, playful vocal delivery, reminiscent of his early crooning style. The lyrics, though simple, capture the innocent excitement of young love, focusing on the anticipation and joy of a date.
While “Datin'” may not have reached the chart-topping heights of Elvis’s other hits, its enduring charm lies in its ability to transport listeners back to a simpler time. It serves as a testament to Elvis’s artistic versatility, showcasing his ability to seamlessly transition between genres while retaining his signature charisma. “Datin'” stands as a delightful anomaly within Elvis’s filmography, a sweet reminder of the doo-wop roots that fueled his meteoric rise to rock and roll royalty.
Video:
https://youtu.be/2rBtIxQoZAU?si=8tNVRw4dA1SutDBy