Introduction:
Among the countless iconic recordings in Elvis Presley’s discography, one song stands out for its unexpected origin. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”, a vibrant and playful rockabilly number released in 1957, boasts a curious history. Unlike the majority of Elvis’ early hits penned by established songwriters like Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” wasn’t written specifically for the King.
The song’s true authorship belongs to Freddie Mercury, the flamboyant frontman of the British rock band Queen. However, “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” wouldn’t see the light of day until decades after its creation. Mercury, a self-proclaimed Elvis fanatic, wrote the track in 1979 as a playful homage to the rock and roll legend. It wasn’t until 1980 that “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” was officially released on Queen’s album The Game, becoming a chart-topping hit and solidifying the band’s place in rock history.
So, how did “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” end up in Elvis’ repertoire? The answer lies in the enterprising spirit of RCA Records, Presley’s longtime label. Recognizing the song’s potential as a rock and roll throwback, RCA secured the rights to record a cover of “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” for Elvis. Produced by Felton Jarvis, a frequent collaborator with Presley in the late 1970s, the cover aimed to recapture the raw energy and infectious spirit of Elvis’ early rockabilly recordings.
Elvis’ version of “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” was released in 1977 on the compilation album Moody Blue. While not a major commercial success, the song garnered a devoted following among fans who appreciated Elvis’ ability to breathe new life into a contemporary rock anthem. The cover showcased Presley’s enduring charisma and his knack for adapting to new musical styles while staying true to his rock and roll roots.
As we delve deeper into Elvis Presley’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”, we’ll explore the fascinating story behind its origins. We’ll compare and contrast the song’s original version by Queen with Elvis’ rockabilly rendition, analyzing the musical choices that shaped each interpretation. Furthermore, we’ll examine the critical reception of Elvis’ cover and its impact on his legacy. Ultimately, we’ll explore whether “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” stands as a novelty or a testament to Elvis Presley’s enduring influence on the world of rock and roll.