Introduction:
Beyond the Bend, a bouncy and optimistic pop tune, soundtracked the opening credits of Elvis Presley’s 1963 film It Happened at the World’s Fair. Released in March of that year, the song offered a peek into the lighthearted tone of the movie and served as a typical example of the music Presley was creating during this period of his career.
Composed by songwriting trio Ben Weisman, Fred Wise, and Dee Fuller, Beyond the Bend was not a ground-breaking song, but it fit neatly into the mold of the soundtrack songs Presley was recording for his films. These songs were often light and cheerful, designed to complement the feel-good atmosphere of the movies. Beyond the Bend is no exception, employing a jaunty melody and cheerful lyrics that spoke of hope and optimism with lines like “There’s a rainbow waiting ’round the bend.”
The song was produced by Elvis’ longtime collaborator, Chet Atkins, who was responsible for a large portion of Presley’s studio output throughout the 1960s. Atkins was a skilled record producer who understood how to craft commercial recordings that would appeal to Presley’s fanbase. Beyond the Bend is a product of this collaboration, showcasing a polished sound that was characteristic of Presley’s soundtrack work.
While Beyond the Bend wasn’t a major hit on the charts, it did find a place in the hearts of many fans. The song’s upbeat personality offered a welcome counterpoint to some of the more serious recordings Presley was making at the time. More importantly, it became a popular choice for Presley’s live shows. Fans who attended concerts during this era likely heard Beyond the Bend performed live, adding to the song’s enduring appeal.
Beyond the Bend may not be one of Presley’s most famous recordings, but it remains a fun and enjoyable song that perfectly captures the spirit of its era. It serves as a reminder of Presley’s versatility as a performer and his ability to deliver a crowd-pleasing tune regardless of the setting.
Video:
Lyrics:
Breeze sing a happy songThis heart of mine is singing right alongDon’t know where I’m goingDon’t know where it endsTill the grass is greener, beyond the bend
I haven’t got a careI’m just on my way to anywherePocketful of nothing, nothing I can spendHope the grass is greener, beyond the bend
Beyond the bend,Perhaps there’ll be somebody waiting who’s right for meSo I got to move aroundAnd I know I’ve got to cover groundOh the trip is shorter when you got a friendGotta find that rainbow beyond the bend
Beyond the bend, beyond the bend