Introduction:
While Elvis Presley is undeniably synonymous with the birth of Rock and Roll in the mid-1950s, his career extended far beyond those early, electrifying years. By the mid-1960s, Presley’s sound had matured, encompassing not just rock and roll, but also elements of blues, gospel, and even country. This musical evolution is evident in his 1966 recording of “Fools Fall in Love”.
“Fools Fall in Love” wasn’t a new song for Presley. The tune was originally written by the legendary songwriting duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller and first rose to prominence in 1957 when it was recorded by The Drifters, a popular doo-wop group. Their version reached number 10 on the Billboard R&B chart. Presley’s rendition, released nearly a decade later, demonstrates the singer’s ability to interpret and adapt existing songs, putting his own unique spin on them.
Presley’s version of “Fools Fall in Love” was not released as a single, but rather appeared on his 1967 album, “I Got Lucky”. The album itself wasn’t a major chart success, but it showcased Presley’s continued growth as a vocalist and his willingness to explore different musical styles. “Fools Fall in Love” is a mid-tempo ballad, a far cry from the high-octane rock and roll of Presley’s early days. The song features a gentle rhythm and blues groove, backed by subtle orchestration and the smooth harmonies of Presley’s longtime backing group, The Jordanaires.
Presley’s vocals on “Fools Fall in Love” are a masterclass in nuanced delivery. He showcases a tenderness and vulnerability that wasn’t always present in his earlier recordings. He seamlessly navigates the song’s emotional landscape, conveying the yearning and wistfulness of the lyrics.
While “Fools Fall in Love” may not be one of Presley’s most famous songs, it remains a valuable gem in his vast catalog. It serves as a testament to his adaptability and his enduring charisma as a vocalist. The song’s inclusion on the “I Got Lucky” album highlights a period in Presley’s career where he was experimenting and refining his sound, a move that would continue to shape his legacy as one of the most influential figures in American music history.
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Lyrics:
Fools fall in love in a hurryFools give their hearts much too soonJust put in two bars of stardustJust hang out one silly moonOh! They’ve got their love torches burningWhen they should be playing it coolI used to laugh but now I’m the sameTake a look at a brand new foolFools fall in love just like schoolgirlsBlinded by rose colored dreamsThey build their castles on wishesWith only rainbows for beamsOh! They’re making plans for the futureWhen they should be right back in schoolI used to laugh but now I’m the sameTake a look at a brand new foolAll rightThey’ve got their love torches burningWhen they should be playing it coolI used to laugh but now I’m the sameTake a look at a brand new foolTake a look at a brand new fool