Introduction:
In the vast tapestry of popular music, few figures stand taller than Elvis Presley. Emerging from humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, in 1935, he rose to become a cultural icon, revolutionizing the music scene and captivating audiences worldwide. His impact transcended music, influencing fashion, dance, and even societal norms.
Released in 1969 on the double album “From Memphis to Vegas/From Vegas to Memphis”, “This is The Story” offers a glimpse into the introspective side of this larger-than-life persona. While Presley is often associated with his energetic and charismatic stage presence, this song showcases a different facet, delving into his personal journey and the challenges he faced navigating his unprecedented fame.
Composed by Don Robertson and produced by Felton Jarvis, the song deviates from the rock and roll style that initially propelled Presley to stardom. Instead, it embraces a more poignant and introspective ballad style, with gentle piano and strings weaving a melancholic tapestry. Presley’s signature soulful vocals, however, remain at the forefront, delivering the lyrics with a heartfelt vulnerability that is rarely seen in his earlier works.
“This is The Story” was not a chart-topping hit, reaching only number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, its significance lies not in its commercial success but in its ability to offer a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend. It sheds light on the struggles and pressures that accompanied his meteoric rise to fame, humanizing the figure often portrayed as a larger-than-life icon.
This song serves as a turning point in Presley’s career, marking a shift towards a more introspective and mature sound. It reveals a vulnerability rarely seen before, allowing audiences to connect with him on a deeper level and appreciate the complexities of the man behind the music. By analyzing “This is The Story,” we gain a deeper understanding of Elvis Presley, the artist and the individual, and his enduring influence on the world of music and beyond.