Rubberneckin’: A Playful Peek into Elvis’ Soulful Side

Introduction:

“Rubberneckin'” is a vibrant and rhythmically charged song that contributed to the eclectic musical journey of Elvis Presley. Co-written by Dory Jones and Bunny Warren, with a funky remix by Paul Oakenfold later released in 2003, the song was initially recorded by Elvis in 1969 during the sessions for the movie “Change of Habit.” However, it remained unreleased until it was included in the 2002 compilation album “ELV1S: 30 #1 Hits.”

Elvis Presley • Rubberneckin' (Paul Oakenfold Remix)

The original recording of “Rubberneckin'” encapsulates the late 1960s sound, fusing elements of rock, soul, and funk. Elvis’s dynamic vocals and the infectious groove of the song make it a standout track in his later catalog. Despite not being released as a single during its initial recording, the song gained renewed attention with the release of the remix by Paul Oakenfold in 2003.

Oakenfold’s remix of “Rubberneckin'” transformed the song into a contemporary dance and pop hit, introducing Elvis’s music to a new generation of listeners. The remix reached the top of the UK Singles Chart, marking Elvis Presley’s return to the top of the charts in the 21st century.

“Rubberneckin'” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s enduring influence and adaptability. Its evolution from an unreleased gem from the late 1960s to a chart-topping remix in the 2000s highlights the timeless appeal of Elvis’s music and the ability of his catalog to resonate across different eras and genres.

Video:

 

You Missed

“HE BURST THROUGH THE DOOR, DRUNK, SHOUTING ‘WHO THE HELL IS THAT?’ — AND NOBODY INSIDE COULD HAVE KNOWN THEY WERE WATCHING THE BEGINNING OF ONE OF COUNTRY MUSIC’S GREATEST FRIENDSHIPS.” It was 1961 at the tiny Blackboard Café in Bakersfield, California. A young, unknown Merle Haggard stood onstage singing Marty Robbins songs, hoping someone might notice. Then the front door slammed open. In walked George Jones—already a country star, already deep into another night of drinking. He stopped in his tracks, listened for a moment, then demanded to know who the young singer was. That unexpected encounter sparked a friendship that would last a lifetime. Jones would often say Merle Haggard was his favorite country singer, while Haggard admired Jones’s voice so deeply that he compared it to a priceless Stradivarius violin. Both men rose from hardship, battled personal struggles, and carried the relentless pressure of living up to legendary reputations. They recorded unforgettable albums together, shared countless stages, and remained fiercely loyal despite difficult moments. When George Jones announced his farewell concert, Haggard quietly bought two $1,000 meet-and-greet tickets, never imagining he would never get the chance to use them. The final words Jones shared with Haggard backstage—and the heartfelt tribute Haggard wrote after losing his friend—became a reminder that some friendships continue echoing long after the last song has faded away.