Introduction:
Unveiled in 1967, “Singing Tree” by the iconic Elvis Presley holds a unique place in his vast musical catalog. While not released during his lifetime, the song offers a glimpse into a different creative direction for the “King of Rock and Roll.” Originally recorded in 1967 during the sessions for the film “Clambake”, “Singing Tree” remained unreleased for over three decades, shrouded in a veil of intrigue for dedicated fans.
Composed by A. Owens and A. Solberg, the song’s origins are shrouded in some mystery. While details about the composers remain scarce, their creation landed in the hands of producer Billy Strange, a longtime collaborator with Presley. Recognizing the song’s potential, Strange presented it to the legendary singer, seeking to broaden his musical palette.
“Singing Tree” departs from Presley’s signature rock and roll sound, venturing into the realm of rock infused with pop and country influences. The song features a laid-back, mid-tempo groove, driven by a steady drum beat and a prominent bassline. Lush orchestral arrangements and the distinctive backing vocals of The Jordanaires add depth and texture to the soundscape.
Presley’s vocal performance on “Singing Tree” showcases his versatility as a singer. He delivers the lyrics with a laid-back confidence, his voice effortlessly navigating the song’s gentle melody. The lyrics themselves paint a whimsical picture, weaving a tale of a singing tree lamenting its inability to move and dance like its human companions. This playful and lighthearted theme provides a unique contrast to the more typical themes of love and heartbreak prevalent in Presley’s music.
While “Singing Tree” remained unreleased for several years, it eventually found its way to the public in 1999 on the compilation album “Elvis – Clambake Aloha From Hawaii.” Despite missing out on the mainstream success of many of Presley’s other hits, the song has garnered a devoted following among fans who appreciate its unique sound and glimpse into an unexplored facet of his musical journey. “Singing Tree” stands as a testament to Presley’s willingness to experiment and his enduring legacy as a musical innovator.