Song #42 - "Are You Lonesome To-Night?" - Elvis

#1 for weeks of November 28th, December 5, 12, 19, and 26th, 1960, and January 2nd, 1961. 

     We wrap up 1960 with one more hit from the king. This one's easily his softest #1 song so far, and just like the previous two hits of his from this year, was recorded not too long after his return from the army. It's also the antithesis of his earlier 1950's classics, and his softer side is in full force.

    "Are You Lonesome To-Night" is a cover of what was even then quite an old standard. It is interesting that back in the 1950's, you had Elvis and the rockers in one corner, and the soft pop balladeers in the other. Now, with this song, Elvis has certainly tapped well into the latter group's sound, and there is barely a trace of his rocker side present.   

     Upon first listen, the tune didn't sound vocally as dynamic as "Its Now Or Never", which alternated between mellow and powerful vocals. "Are You Lonesome..." is strictly sung in a mellow, almost crooning, singing voice. Also, the lengthy spoken-word middle section really didn't do anything for me upon first listen. Then of course, upon second listen, certain elements started to click. 

     If one pays attention to the lyrics in the spoken word section, they actually are very universal, telling the tale of how a once strong relationship became devoid of love. Still, sometimes it does sound a bit melodramatic in parts, and even Elvis would soon take to changing the lines of it when performing it on stage to add some comedic effect. 

     Regardless, for what it's worth, Elvis does do a good job vocally with the song, and though it may not be one of my top favorite Elvis songs, I still have to give him credit again for trying something different. With the exception of the spoken word section, the song has aged rather well, mostly due to its lyrical themes of heartbreak and wanting to mend a broken relationship, which are still relevant in today's society.  

Final Verdict - Certainly the softest Elvis song so far. Despite the spoken bridge being a bit too long and dated sounding, the rest of the performance is standard Elvis: It's nicely sung and emoted. Not among my top Elvis songs, but it's hard to find a bad Elvis song and this one certainly isn't one of them. 

                          Coming Up Next - 1960 Reflection. 

            Until Next Time - I'm Dr. Rock, and I'm Lonesome To-Night.