About The Song
“It Hurts Me” is a poignant and soulful ballad performed by the legendary Elvis Presley. Released in 1964 as the B-side to the single “Kissin’ Cousins,” the song showcases Presley’s exceptional vocal range and emotional depth. Written by Joy Byers and Charles E. Daniels, the lyrics convey the heartfelt pain of unrequited love and the sorrow of a relationship gone wrong.
In this touching ballad, Presley’s powerful and emotive voice brings the lyrics to life, capturing the listener’s attention from the very first note. The song’s melancholic melody, coupled with Presley’s heartfelt delivery, creates a truly unforgettable musical experience.
“It Hurts Me” resonates with listeners on a deep level, as Elvis Presley masterfully conveys the universal theme of heartbreak and the anguish that comes with unfulfilled love. With its soul-stirring lyrics and Presley’s soulful rendition, the song continues to be a cherished classic in the realm of heartfelt ballads, showcasing the enduring talent of the King of Rock and Roll.
Did You Know?
In the lead-up to Christmas in 1962, Charlie Daniels, the future country music legend, was driving from El Paso, Texas, to the East Coast when the concept for this song took shape. Soon after, his close friend Bob Johnston invited him to Nashville, where they collaborated on this track. Recalling the experience in his Songfacts interview, Daniels shared how they completed the song, and Johnston made a demo. The song was managed by Hill & Range, the parent company of Elvis Presley’s music ventures.
History was made when Elvis Presley embraced the song, keeping it in his portfolio for nearly a year before recording it. For Daniels, this was a significant milestone in his life. Although he never met Presley in person, he had the chance to talk to Presley’s daughter, Lisa Marie, at a Memphis event. Daniels noted the striking resemblance between Lisa Marie and her father, describing it as “spooky” yet feminine.
This song, penned by Daniels and Johnston (credited as “Joe Byers” at the time), was featured as the B-side of “Kissin’ Cousins.” Interestingly, it became a staple in over 25 subsequent Elvis Presley albums and compilations.
An amusing incident related to the song’s title is recounted in Al Kooper’s book, “Backstage Passes and Backstabbing Bastards.” Elvis’ bodyguard, Lamar Fike, would nonchalantly endure dart-related accidents during Elvis’ games, displaying remarkable composure each time.
Watch the Video:
[Click here to watch the official video of “It Hurts Me” by Elvis Presley]
Lyrics
It hurts me to see him treat you the way he does
It hurts me to see sit and cry
When I know I could be so true
If I had someone like you
It hurts me to see those tears in your eyesThe whole town is talking, they’re callin’ you a fool
For listening to his same old lies
And when I know I could be so true
If I had someone like you
It hurts me to see the way he makes you cryYou love him too much, you’re too blind to see
He’s only playing a game
But he’s never loved you
He never will
And darling, don’t you know he will never changeOh, I know he never will set you free
Because he’s just that kind of guy
But if you ever tell him you’re through
I’ll be waiting for you
Waiting to hold you so tight
Waiting to kiss you goodnight
Yes, darling, if I had someone like you