Introduction:
Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, wasn’t known for ballads heavy on heartbreak. Yet, in 1967, nestled amongst the playful pop tunes of his film soundtrack Double Trouble, emerged a poignant song titled “What Now, What Next, Where To”. This melancholic ballad showcased a different side of Presley, one grappling with loss and searching for direction.
Composed by the songwriting duo of Hal Blair and Seymour Cohn, “What Now, What Next, Where To” perfectly captured the emotional turmoil of a love lost. The lyrics, though not penned by Presley himself, resonated with his signature vulnerability. The song’s melancholic tone was further accentuated by the production of Billy Strange, a longtime Presley collaborator. Strange, known for his stripped-down, yet emotionally resonant arrangements, crafted a soundscape that perfectly complemented the song’s theme. With a gentle piano melody and a restrained string section, the production allowed Presley’s vocals to take center stage.
While “What Now, What Next, Where To” didn’t achieve the chart-topping success of Presley’s earlier hits, it became a fan favorite. The song’s raw vulnerability offered a glimpse into the emotional complexities of the King, a persona often associated with swagger and rebellion. Released during a period of significant change in Presley’s career, with his film soundtracks taking precedence over rock and roll, “What Now, What Next, Where To” seemed to reflect a sense of personal and professional uncertainty.
Despite its lack of chart dominance, “What Now, What Next, Where To” has endured as a testament to Presley’s versatility as a vocalist. The song showcased his ability to deliver heartbreaking ballads with the same conviction as his electrifying rock and roll anthems. Today, the song remains a cherished addition to Presley’s vast catalog, offering a glimpse into a lesser-known, yet equally compelling, side of the King.