Introduction:
By the early 1970s, Elvis Presley, the undisputed king of rock and roll, found himself at a crossroads. Having dominated the music scene in the 1950s with his electrifying blend of rockabilly, blues, and gospel, his career trajectory had shifted in the following decade. Movie soundtracks and a move towards pop ballads characterized his musical output, a direction that didn’t always resonate with his core fanbase.
This tension between his past rock and roll glory and the commercial realities of the time is palpable in “It Ain’t No Big Thing (But It’s Growing),” a song released in 1971 on the album “Love Letters from Elvis.” While credited to pseudonym Nicky Merritt (likely a combination of staff songwriter Sharon Sheeley and producer Felton Jarvis), the song’s melancholic lyrics seem to reflect Elvis’ own inner turmoil.
The producer, Felton Jarvis, was a crucial figure in Elvis’ later career. Jarvis, who had produced several of Elvis’ successful gospel recordings, aimed to recapture some of the raw energy of his early work. “It Ain’t No Big Thing (But It’s Growing)” showcases this intent. The stripped-down arrangement features a prominent acoustic guitar, a steady drumbeat, and Elvis’ unmistakable vocals, delivering a heartfelt performance that resonates with vulnerability.
Despite its introspective nature, the song doesn’t stray entirely from Elvis’ roots. Subtle touches, like the use of a bluesy harmonica and the signature Presley hiccups, remind listeners of the rock and roll king that lies beneath the surface.
“It Ain’t No Big Thing (But It’s Growing)” wasn’t a chart-topping hit, but it garnered a dedicated following among Elvis fans who appreciated its honesty and vulnerability. It serves as a poignant reminder of Elvis’ musical prowess and his struggle to maintain his artistic identity in the ever-evolving landscape of popular music. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture a complex moment in the King’s career, a time of introspection and a yearning to reconnect with his musical roots.