Introduction:
Even for the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley’s path wasn’t always smooth. In 1957, amidst his meteoric rise to fame, Presley encountered a creative hurdle with the song “One Night”. This track, originally intended to be a sultry R&B number, became a fascinating example of Presley’s artistic influence and the evolving landscape of Rock and Roll.
Composed by the songwriting trio of Dave Bartholomew, Pearl King, and Anita Steinman, “One Night” was initially a hit for Smiley Lewis in 1956. The original version boasted suggestive lyrics, perfect for the burgeoning R&B scene. Presley, however, saw potential in the song’s melody but felt the lyrics wouldn’t resonate with his audience. Colonel Tom Parker, Presley’s enigmatic manager, and RCA Records, the label behind his phenomenal success, shared these concerns.
Presley, known for his rebellious streak, wasn’t ready to give up on the song. He tinkered with the lyrics in his downtime, ultimately crafting a tamer but heartfelt version. The original line, “One night of sin is what I’m now paying for,” became the more radio-friendly, “One night with you is what I’m now praying for.” With this change, Presley not only ensured wider acceptance but also infused the song with a touch of romantic vulnerability.
The road to release for Presley’s version of “One Night” was still bumpy. RCA wasn’t initially convinced, leading Presley to record the song in January 1957, with the racier lyrics intact. This version wouldn’t see the light of day until 1983. Finally, in February 1957, Presley presented his revised version to RCA, and this time, it received the green light.
Released as a double A-side single with “I Got Stung” in October 1958, Presley’s “One Night” achieved significant commercial success. It peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a No. 1 hit in the UK, even becoming the country’s 1000th No. 1 single upon its re-release in 2005.
“One Night” stands as a testament to Presley’s artistic influence and his ability to adapt to evolving audience tastes. The song’s journey from an R&B hit with suggestive lyrics to a chart-topping rock and roll ballad with a touch of vulnerability showcases Presley’s impact on the music industry and his enduring legacy as the King of Rock and Roll.