Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s “Trying To Get To You” is a quintessential rock and roll anthem that showcases the raw energy and vocal prowess of the King of Rock and Roll at the dawn of his career. Recorded in 1954 during his Sun Records sessions, the song was originally penned by the songwriting duo of Rose Maddox and Charles Calhoun. While it wasn’t released as a single at the time, it would later become a cornerstone of Presley’s live performances and a beloved track among his fans.
The song’s infectious rhythm, coupled with Presley’s dynamic vocal delivery and the spirited accompaniment of Scotty Moore on guitar and Bill Black on bass, perfectly captures the essence of early rock and roll. “Trying To Get To You” is a testament to Presley’s innate musical talent and his ability to infuse even the simplest of songs with a raw, electrifying power.
Though Sam Phillips, the legendary founder of Sun Records, is often credited as the producer of Presley’s early recordings, the exact production credits for the Sun sessions remain somewhat elusive. However, Phillips’s influence on the sound and direction of these recordings is undeniable.
While “Trying To Get To You” may not have achieved the same level of chart success as some of Presley’s later hits, its impact on rock and roll cannot be overstated. The song has become a staple in Presley’s discography and continues to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike as a timeless example of the genre’s raw energy and infectious appeal.
Over the years, “Trying To Get To You” has been covered by numerous artists, solidifying its status as a rock and roll classic. Presley himself revisited the song on multiple occasions, including his iconic 1968 Comeback Special, where his stripped-down performance further highlighted the song’s enduring power.