Introduction:
Emerging from the burgeoning rock and roll scene of the mid-1950s, a young Elvis Presley captivated audiences with his electrifying performances and undeniable charisma. His 1956 single, “How’s The World Treating You?”, showcased a different side of the budding superstar – a vulnerable and lovelorn man yearning for a lost love. Released in October of that year on the album simply titled “Elvis”, the song became a sleeper hit, failing to crack the Billboard Top 100 but resonating deeply with fans who connected with Presley’s raw emotion.
Composed by the songwriting duo of Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, “How’s The World Treating You?” deviated slightly from Presley’s usual rockabilly sound. Gone were the driving rhythms and suggestive lyrics that had propelled him to national fame. Instead, the song featured a melancholic melody and a slower tempo, creating a space for Presley to deliver a more introspective performance. Produced by the legendary Sam Phillips, the mastermind behind Sun Records who first launched Presley’s career, the track employed a stripped-down arrangement that emphasized Presley’s vocals and the poignant lyrics.
The song’s emotional core centers on the protagonist’s utter dejection in the absence of his love. The opening lines paint a picture of a world devoid of joy, with “every day” feeling like a “blue Monday” and the future offering nothing but emptiness: “Got no plans for next Sunday / Got no plans for today / Every day is blue Monday / Every day you’re away”. Presley’s voice conveys a deep sense of loneliness, a stark contrast to the energetic persona he projected in his more upbeat numbers.
“How’s The World Treating You?” marked a turning point in Presley’s early career. While not a commercial smash, it demonstrated his versatility as a performer and his ability to connect with audiences on a more emotional level. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes of heartbreak and longing, emotions that transcend generations. Today, it remains a favorite among dedicated fans, a lesser-known gem that offers a glimpse into the complex soul of the young Elvis Presley.