Top 10 Must-Have Elvis Presley Tracks for Every Fan
Elvis Presley tracks, also known as the “King of Rock and Roll,” is one of the most iconic and influential artists in music history. His unique blend of rock, country, and blues captivated audiences all over the world and made him a household name. And even years after his passing, his music continues to be celebrated and loved by fans of all ages.
As an avid fan of Elvis Presley, I have compiled a list of the top 10 must-have tracks that every fan should have in their collection. From his early hits to his later ballads, these songs showcase the best of what Elvis had to offer and are timeless pieces of music that will never go out of style. So, get ready to take a trip down memory lane and rediscover why Elvis Presley will always be the King of Rock and Roll.
The Best of Elvis Presley: A Countdown
To kick off our list, let’s start with a countdown of the top 10 must-have Elvis Presley tracks. Each song on this list has earned its spot based on its popularity, impact, and overall quality. So, without further ado, let’s begin the countdown.
10. “Hound Dog”
Originally recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, Elvis’ cover of “Hound Dog” became one of his signature songs and a fan favorite. Its upbeat rhythm, catchy lyrics, and Elvis’ energetic performance make it a must-have track for any fan.
9. “Jailhouse Rock”
Another one of Elvis’ signature songs, “Jailhouse Rock” is a classic rock and roll track that showcases both his vocal and dancing abilities. It was also featured in Elvis’ third film of the same title, solidifying its place in pop culture history.
8. “Can’t Help Falling in Love”
This romantic ballad is one of Elvis’ most beloved songs, with its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but nothing can compare to the original version by the King himself.
7. “Burning Love”
Released in 1972, “Burning Love” was Elvis’ last top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its infectious groove and Elvis’ powerful vocals make it a fan favorite and a must-have track in any Elvis Presley collection.
6. “Love Me Tender”
Another classic love song from Elvis, “Love Me Tender” is a timeless piece that showcases his softer side. It was originally written for the 1956 film of the same title and has since become one of his most recognizable and popular songs.
5. “Suspicious Minds”
Considered to be one of Elvis’ best songs, “Suspicious Minds” combines elements of rock, country, and soul to create a unique and unforgettable sound. It also marked the beginning of his comeback in the late 1960s and solidified his place as a legendary performer.
4. “Blue Suede Shoes”
Originally recorded by Carl Perkins, Elvis’ cover of “Blue Suede Shoes” became a hit and is now considered one of his signature songs. Its catchy tune and playful lyrics make it a fun addition to any Elvis Presley playlist.
3. “Heartbreak Hotel”
Elvis’ first number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, “Heartbreak Hotel” is a haunting yet captivating song that tells the story of a heartbroken man staying at a hotel for lost souls. It showcases Elvis’ vocal range and ability to convey emotion through his music.
2. “All Shook Up”
Written by Otis Blackwell and recorded by Elvis in 1957, “All Shook Up” became his second number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its catchy chorus and Elvis’ electrifying performance make it a must-have track for any fan.
1. “Hound Dog”
Topping our list is none other than “Hound Dog,” which has become synonymous with Elvis Presley himself. This iconic track perfectly captures the energy and charisma of the King and solidifies its place as one of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time.
Elvis Presley’s Most Iconic Songs
Apart from our top 10 countdown, there are many other iconic songs that deserve recognition in any discussion about Elvis Presley. These tracks have stood the test of time and have become cultural touchstones in the world of music. Let’s take a closer look at some of these essential Elvis Presley tracks.
“Jailhouse Rock”
As mentioned earlier, “Jailhouse Rock” is not only a must-have track but also an iconic one. The song’s catchy chorus and Elvis’ memorable dance routine in the film of the same name have made it a staple at parties and events even decades after its release.
“Viva Las Vegas”
Released in 1964, “Viva Las Vegas” is a high-energy track that captures the excitement and glamour of the city of Las Vegas. It was featured in the film of the same title, and Elvis’ electrifying performance, along with the catchy tune, makes it a fan favorite.
“In The Ghetto”
With its powerful lyrics and haunting melody, “In The Ghetto” is one of Elvis’ most socially conscious songs. It tells the story of a young boy growing up in poverty and serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of life for many people.
“Always On My Mind”
Originally recorded by Brenda Lee, Elvis’ cover of “Always On My Mind” earned him a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. Its emotional lyrics and Elvis’ heartfelt rendition make it one of his most iconic ballads.
“That’s All Right”
Considered to be Elvis’ first rock and roll single, “That’s All Right” marks the beginning of his career as a music icon. It has since become a symbol of the birth of rock and roll and solidified Elvis’ place in music history.
Ultimate Playlist: Elvis Presley Edition
Now that we’ve covered some of Elvis’ most iconic songs, let’s take a look at the ultimate playlist for any fan. This selection of tracks includes both popular hits and lesser-known gems that showcase the versatility and talent of the King.
- “Hound Dog”
- “Jailhouse Rock”
- “Can’t Help Falling in Love”
- “Burning Love”
- “Love Me Tender”
- “Suspicious Minds”
- “Blue Suede Shoes”
- “Heartbreak Hotel”
- “All Shook Up”
- “In The Ghetto”
- “Always On My Mind”
- “That’s All Right”
- “Don’t Be Cruel”
- “A Little Less Conversation”
- “Are You Lonesome Tonight?”
- “Return to Sender”
- “It’s Now or Never”
- “Bossa Nova Baby”
- “Hawaiian Wedding Song”
- “If I Can Dream”
This ultimate playlist is just a small taste of the many great songs Elvis Presley has recorded throughout his career. And with more than 800 songs in his discography, there is always something new to discover and love about his music.
The King’s Greatest Hits: A Ranking
As we all know, Elvis Presley had numerous chart-topping hits throughout his career. But among these hits, which ones stand out as his greatest? Here’s a ranking of the King’s top 5 greatest hits, based on their success, impact, and overall quality.
- “Heartbreak Hotel”
- “Hound Dog”
- “Don’t Be Cruel”
- “All Shook Up”
- “Suspicious Minds”
While this ranking is subjective, there is no denying that these songs have made a significant impact on not just Elvis’ career but also in the world of music in general. Their timeless appeal and popularity have solidified their place as some of the greatest hits of all time.
Rediscovering Elvis Presley’s Music: Top Tracks
Apart from his chart-topping hits, Elvis’ discography also includes many tracks that are often overlooked but are still worth rediscovering. These hidden gems showcase the diversity and evolution of his music throughout the years. Here are some of the top tracks that deserve more recognition.
“Mystery Train”
Originally recorded by Junior Parker, Elvis’ cover of “Mystery Train” is a bluesy track that showcases his early influences and vocal style. It has since become a fan favorite and a staple in his live performances.
“Little Sister”
Released in 1961, “Little Sister” marked Elvis’ return to rock and roll after his stint in the army. Its catchy guitar riff and Elvis’ dynamic vocals make it one of the standout tracks in his discography.
“If I Can Dream”
Recorded in 1968, “If I Can Dream” became a symbol of hope during a tumultuous time in American history. Its powerful message and Elvis’ passionate performance make it a standout track in his later career.
From the Vault: Rare and Underrated Elvis Presley Tracks
Aside from the well-known hits and hidden gems, there are also rare and underrated tracks from Elvis’ vault that have yet to be discovered by many fans. And with the recent release of remastered versions of some of his albums, these tracks are now more accessible than ever. Here are some of the must-listen rare and underrated Elvis Presley tracks.
“Lonely Man”
Recorded for his film “Wild in the Country,” “Lonely Man” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases Elvis’ vulnerable side. Its emotional lyrics and haunting melody make it a standout track in the film and in his discography.
“Blue Moon”
Originally recorded by Rodgers and Hart in 1934, Elvis’ cover of “Blue Moon” was featured in his film “Blue Hawaii.” His smooth and soulful vocals, along with the tropical vibes, make this track a must-listen for any Elvis fan.
“Memories”
Written for the 1968 television special “Elvis,” “Memories” is a nostalgic and reflective song that showcases Elvis’ vocal range and emotional depth. It has since become a fan favorite and a staple in his live performances.
Elvis Presley’s Impact on Music: Essential Tracks
It’s no secret that Elvis Presley has had a significant impact on the music industry and continues to inspire artists of all genres even today. And to truly appreciate his influence, we must look beyond just his popular hits and delve into some of his essential tracks that have shaped the music landscape. Here are some of the songs that showcase Elvis’ impact on music.
“That’s All Right”
As mentioned earlier, “That’s All Right” marked the beginning of Elvis’ career and served as a catalyst for the birth of rock and roll. The fusion of different genres and Elvis’ unique and charismatic approach to music would go on to inspire countless artists and shape the sound of popular music for years to come.
“Heartbreak Hotel”
Not only was “Heartbreak Hotel” Elvis’ first number one hit, but it also marked the beginning of his success as an international superstar. Its blend of rock and roll, country, and blues would set the standard for future songs in the genre and pave the way for other artists to follow.
“Hound Dog”
Another one of Elvis’ signature songs, “Hound Dog” is a prime example of how he was able to take existing songs and make them his own. His energetic performance and unique vocal style elevated this track to iconic status, making it one of the most influential songs in rock and roll history.
Elvis Presley’s Evolution Through His Songs
Throughout his career, Elvis Presley’s music evolved and changed as he grew as an artist and adapted to the changing times. From his early rockabilly hits to his later ballads and gospel tracks, we can see how his music reflected his personal growth and reflected the trends of the music industry. Here are some essential tracks that showcase Elvis’ evolution through his songs.
“Don’t Be Cruel”
Released in 1956, “Don’t Be Cruel” is a prime example of Elvis’ early rockabilly sound. Its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics quickly became a fan favorite and helped propel him to stardom.
“Love Me Tender”
As Elvis’ popularity grew, so did his range as an artist. “Love Me Tender” marked his first foray into ballads and showcased his ability to convey emotion through his powerful vocals. It also cemented his status as a heartthrob and established him as a versatile performer.
“In The Ghetto”
By the late 1960s, Elvis had grown not only as an artist but also as a person. “In The Ghetto” is a reflection of his social awareness and showed a more mature and socially conscious side of him. It also marked a shift in his musical style, incorporating elements of soul and gospel into his music.
Celebrating the Legacy of Elvis Presley: Must-Listen Tracks
As we celebrate the legacy of Elvis Presley, it’s essential to remember that his impact on music goes beyond just his chart-topping hits. His music has stood the test of time and continues to be celebrated by new generations of fans. So, here are some must-listen tracks that showcase why Elvis Presley will always be the King of Rock and Roll.
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“If I Can Dream”
Released in 1968, “If I Can Dream” is a powerful and uplifting song that perfectly captures the essence of Elvis’ message of love and hope. Its lyrics and Elvis’ passionate delivery make it a standout track in his discography and a celebration of his legacy as an artist.
“I Can’t Help Falling in Love”
This romantic ballad has become synonymous with Elvis Presley and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its timeless appeal and universal message of falling in love make it a must-listen track not just for fans but for anyone who appreciates great music.
“My Way”
Frank Sinatra’s iconic song became an anthem for Elvis towards the end of his career. His rendition of “My Way” showcases his vocal maturity and serves as a testament to his undeniable talent as a performer. It’s a fitting tribute to the legacy of the one and only King of Rock and Roll.
Conclusion
From his early days as a young musician to his status as an international superstar, Elvis Presley’s music has touched the hearts of millions of people all over the world. His unique blend of different genres, charismatic stage presence, and powerful vocals have made him an icon in the music industry and solidified his place in history.
In this article, we’ve explored the top 10 must-have Elvis Presley tracks for every fan, as well as the best of his music through various rankings and playlists. We’ve also delved into some of his most iconic songs, rediscovered hidden gems and rare tracks, and celebrated his impact on music through the years.
As we continue to celebrate the legacy of Elvis Presley, may we always remember the King through his timeless and unforgettable music. And for those who are new to his music, may this list be a guide in discovering the magic of Elvis Presley’s music for the first time.
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