Introduction:
Released in 1965, “Startin’ Tonight” was a significant departure for the young Elvis Presley. This rock and roll ballad, produced by Steve Sholes, marked a noticeable shift in Presley’s sound and career trajectory. While still classified as rock and roll, “Startin’ Tonight” showcased a more ballad-heavy style compared to his earlier, high-energy rockabilly hits.
Though not his biggest hit, reaching number 15 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart, “Startin’ Tonight” holds a special place in Presley’s musical evolution. It served as a bridge between his electrifying rockabilly roots and his exploration of more mature themes and genres in the coming years.
Prior to “Startin’ Tonight,” Presley had taken the world by storm with his energetic and charismatic rockabilly performances. Songs like “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock” revolutionized popular music, capturing the youthful rebellion of the 1950s. However, “Startin’ Tonight” showcased a different side of Presley. The song’s slower tempo and heartfelt lyrics allowed his smooth vocals to take center stage, expressing a newfound tenderness and emotional vulnerability.
Thematically, “Startin’ Tonight” speaks of a deep and committed love. The lyrics depict a narrator pledging his devotion to his significant other, marking a significant shift from the playful banter of his earlier hits. This newfound focus on mature themes like love and commitment foreshadowed Presley’s exploration of ballads and romantic pop in the later parts of his career.
“Startin’ Tonight” was featured in the musical film “Girl Happy”, released in 1965. The film itself was part of a string of commercially successful Hollywood musicals Presley starred in throughout the 1960s. While these films often received mixed reviews for their plots, they served as a platform for Presley to showcase his musical versatility, including slower ballads like “Startin’ Tonight.”
In conclusion, “Startin’ Tonight” stands as a pivotal moment in Elvis Presley’s artistic journey. It marked a departure from his rockabilly roots, showcasing his vocals in a more tender and emotional light. The song’s lyrics spoke of a newfound love and commitment, foreshadowing the maturation of Presley’s music in the years to come. Though not a chart-topping hit, “Startin’ Tonight” holds a significant place in Presley’s evolution as a musician, paving the way for his exploration of more mature themes and genres.
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Lyrics:
Michigan State, ComityHarvard UniversityVassa, Wilbur Smith and BrownShakin’ up this here town tonightStartin’ tonightHave a ball do it all startin’ tonight
Grab your partner by the hand,Spread a blanket on the sandThree a.m. go for a swimClothes and all jump right inTonight, startin’ tonightLet out the stops, call the cops, it’s all right
‘Course when the cops have come and goneYou’ll just keep carrying onDon’t you worry if you land in jailWe’ll forward your mail if you can’t make bailTonight, startin’ tonightHave a ball do it all startin’ tonightAnything goes, everything goes, startin’ tonightStartin’ tonight.