Introduction:
In the latter half of his career, the iconic Elvis Presley ventured beyond the realm of rock and roll that had initially propelled him to superstardom. While his electrifying performances and rebellious persona remained etched in the public consciousness, Elvis also showcased a softer side through soulful ballads and introspective country-tinged melodies. One such gem emerged in 1973 with the release of “Girl of Mine”.
Composed by the songwriting duo of Les Reed and Barry Mason, “Girl of Mine” deviated from the high-octane rockabilly that defined Elvis’s early years. Instead, it embraced a smooth soul and pop influenced sound, characterized by a gentle piano melody and a warm, driving rhythm section. The track was meticulously arranged by Glen Spreen, who masterfully weaved Elvis’s powerful vocals with the rich harmonies provided by the legendary J.D. Sumner & The Stamps.
While “Girl of Mine” didn’t achieve the chart-topping dominance of Elvis’s earlier hits, it resonated deeply with his dedicated fanbase. The song’s success wasn’t solely measured by commercial figures; it served as a poignant testament to Elvis’s artistic evolution. Here, the King shed his rebellious image and donned the cloak of a devoted lover, expressing his unwavering affection and commitment. The lyrics, though not explicitly revealed here, paint a picture of a man utterly captivated by the woman he loves, vowing his undying love and devotion.
The recording of “Girl of Mine” itself holds historical significance. While the bulk of the track was laid down at Stax Studios in Memphis on July 24th, 1973, Elvis added his signature vocals later that year at his Palm Springs residence on September 22nd. This unique recording process highlights Elvis’s dedication to crafting a masterpiece, even if it meant breaking away from the traditional studio setting.
“Girl of Mine” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s artistic versatility. It serves as a reminder that the King of Rock and Roll wasn’t confined to a single genre. This soulful ballad showcased his phenomenal vocal range and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level. While it may not have been a chart-topping juggernaut, “Girl of Mine” remains a beloved track in Elvis’s extensive discography, a testament to his enduring legacy and his ability to captivate listeners with his timeless voice and heartfelt emotions.
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Lyrics:
When you’re asleep beside me, I watch you lying thereYour hand upon the pillow and moonlight in your hairI get the warmest feeling, so good I almost cryI kiss your sleeping lips and say I’ll love you ’till I die
Oh girl of mine, you make my dayOne sunny smile and all the clouds just roll awayEyes deep as the sea seem to say to meOur love will always be
So girl of mine, turn out the lightAnd in my arms together we’ll make sweet love tonightDown life’s golden road and you’ll always knowI love you, girl of mine
Sometimes I know I hurt you when things ain’t going rightI walk away and leave you to face the lonely nightI wouldn’t blame you, darling, if you walked out on meBut I return to find you there still waiting patiently
Oh girl of mine, you make my dayOne sunny smile and all the clouds just roll awayEyes deep as the sea seem to say to meOur love will always be
So girl of mine, turn out the lightAnd in my arms together we’ll make sweet love tonightDown life’s golden road and you’ll always knowI love you, girl of mine (girl of mine)