Introduction:
Released in 1960, “Make Me Know It” is a rockabilly ballad that showcases the early rock and roll sound of the legendary Elvis Presley. The song, written by Otis Blackwell, became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard B-side chart. It was produced by Sam Phillips, the founder of Sun Records, the label that launched Presley’s career.
“Make Me Know It” is a prime example of the energetic and charismatic sound that captivated audiences in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Presley’s vocals are powerful and emotive, driving the song forward with his signature intensity. The music is characterized by a driving rhythm guitar part, a prominent slap bass line, and backing vocals that fill out the sound. These elements all come together to create a dynamic and infectious track that perfectly captures the essence of early rock and roll.
The lyrics of “Make Me Know It” express a lover’s desire for reassurance and commitment. The singer pleads with their partner to not just say they care, but to prove it through their actions. Lines like “You say you love me and swear it to be true/ But if you care to come over here and make me know it do” and “You say you wanna hold me and stick to me like glue/ Well hearing’s deceiving and seeing’s believing” convey a playful skepticism, demanding actions to back up sweet words. This theme of emotional honesty resonated with many listeners, further propelling the song’s popularity.
“Make Me Know It” was not just a commercial success, but it also played a significant role in the development of rock and roll. The song’s fusion of blues and country influences, along with Presley’s electrifying performance, helped to solidify the genre’s sound and establish Presley as a rock and roll icon. It remains a fan favorite and a beloved track in Presley’s vast catalog, a testament to its enduring appeal and its place in rock and roll history.
Video:
Lyrics:
You say that you love meAnd swear it to be trueBut if you care to come over hereAnd make me know it do
Come on now, make me know itThen go ahead and show itBut if you care to come over hereAnd make me know it do
You say you’ve got kissesAnd swear that they’re brand newI think that’s fine if you ain’t lyin’But make me know it do
Come on now, make me know itThen go ahead and show itI think that’s fine if you ain’t lyin’But make me know it do
You won’t have no trouble proving it to meCome right along you’ll find meHelpful as can be
You say you wanna hold meAnd stick to me like glueWell hearing’s deceivingAnd seeing’s believingMake me know it do
Come on now, make me know itWell go ahead and show itI say hearing’s deceivingSeeing’s believingMake me know it do
You won’t have no trouble proving it to meCome right along you’ll find meHelpful as can be
You say you wanna hold meAnd stick to me like glueWell hearing’s deceivingAnd seeing’s believingMake me know it do
Come on now, make me know itWell go ahead and show itI say hearing’s deceivingSeeing’s believingMake me know it do
Oh make me know itThen go ahead and show itMake me know itThen go ahead…