Introduction:
While Elvis Presley is undeniably synonymous with high-octane rock and roll hits that revolutionized the music scene in the 1950s, his repertoire also encompassed a softer side. This lesser-known facet is exemplified by the charming ballad, Slowly But Surely, released in 1963.
Slowly But Surely stands out for being the very first song Presley recorded at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee on May 28th, 1963. The session yielded a master recording in just five takes, a testament to the Presley’s characteristic charisma and natural talent. However, the song’s release trajectory differed from his usual chart-topping success.
Slowly But Surely was not initially intended for a single release. Instead, it found its way onto the soundtrack of Presley’s 1963 film, Fun in Acapulco. The song appeared as a bonus track on the film’s album of the same name, released in November 1963. Presley fans would have to wait until the 1965 movie, Tickle Me, to hear a slightly edited version of Slowly But Surely prominently featured in the closing scene. This edited version omitted the middle section and brought the ending forward, tailoring it for the film’s narrative.
Despite not being a traditional chart-topping single, Slowly But Surely has garnered a devoted following among Presley’s fans. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its heartfelt lyrics and Presley’s smooth vocals. The lyrics depict a narrator determined to win over someone’s affection, taking a patient approach: “Slowly, but surely, I’m gonna wear you down / Slowly, but surely, I’m gonna bring you round / To my way of thinking, my way of kissing, my way of lovin’ / Slowly, but surely, I’m gonna make you mine.” Presley delivers these lines with his signature charm and a touch of vulnerability, creating a romantic and relatable ballad.
Slowly But Surely serves as a reminder of Presley’s versatility as a musician. While his rock and roll anthems undeniably left a lasting mark, this lesser-known ballad showcases his ability to deliver a heartfelt performance that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Video:
Lyrics:
Slowly but surely I’m gonna wear you downSlowly but surely I’m gonna bring you roundTo my way of thinking, my way of kissing, my way of lovin’Slowly but surely, I’m gonna make you mine
I ain’t gonna rush ya’, I’ll let you meditateThough I wanna crush ya’ my arms will have to waitI’ll just take it easy, so nice and easy, real cool reallySlowly but surely, I’m gonna make you mine
Oh yeah, mmm, I’ve got a feelin’ I’m not wasting my timeOh yeah, when you get the message it’s going to be fineSlowly but surely, the table’s gonna turnSlowly but surely, your lips are gonna burnFor what you’ve been missin’ is my kind of kissin’, my kind of lovin’Slowly but surely, I’m gonna make you mine
Oh yeah, mmm, I’ve got a feelin’ I’m not wasting my timeOh yeah, when you get the message it’s going to be fineSlowly but surely, the table’s gonna turnSlowly but surely, your lips are gonna burnFor what you’ve been missin’ is my kind of kissin’, my kind of lovin’Slowly but surely, I’m gonna make you mineI’m gonna make you mineI’m gonna make you mine