Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s cinematic career, a whirlwind of musicals and romances, reached its final narrative chapter with the 1969 film Change of Habit. Released in November of that year, the movie marked a departure for Presley in several ways. Gone were the flashy costumes and teenage rebellion narratives that had defined his earlier films. Instead, Change of Habit presented a more mature Presley, portraying Dr. John Carpenter, a dedicated physician working in a struggling inner-city clinic.
The film, a surprising genre blend of crime drama, musical, and social commentary, aimed to tackle more serious themes than Presley’s previous vehicles. Social issues like poverty and gang violence were woven into the narrative, offering a stark contrast to the lighthearted musicals of his earlier years. While the film wasn’t a critical darling, it did achieve moderate commercial success, peaking at #17 on the Variety Box Office Survey.
The song “Change of Habit”, the title track of the film, further reflects this shift in tone. Composed by the songwriting duo of Buddy Kaye and Ben Weisman, the song departs from the rock and roll roots of Presley’s early career. Instead, it leans towards a more introspective and melodic pop ballad style, with a touch of gospel influence. The song’s producer, Billy Goldenberg, was a seasoned Hollywood veteran known for his work with artists like Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand. His influence is evident in the polished orchestral arrangements and mature lyricism of “Change of Habit.”
Despite the film’s mixed reception, the song itself holds a certain significance within Presley’s discography. It stands as a testament to his willingness to experiment with different sounds and themes, a quality often overshadowed by his rock and roll persona. Furthermore, “Change of Habit” serves as a poignant farewell to his cinematic career. Presley would only appear in concert documentaries following its release.
As we delve into the song, it’s important to consider this context. “Change of Habit” is not just a love ballad within the film’s narrative. It can also be seen as a reflection on Presley’s own artistic journey, a bittersweet farewell to a career that had brought him immense fame and fortune.