About the Song
“A Mess of Blues” was written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. It was recorded by Elvis Presley in 1960 and released as the B-side of the single “It’s Now or Never”. The song is a blues ballad about a man who is heartbroken after being left by his lover.
Recording and production
The song was recorded at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee on March 21, 1960. It was produced by Chet Atkins. The song features Presley on vocals, Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums.
Musical style and composition
“A Mess of Blues” is a slow-burning blues ballad. It is characterized by Presley’s soulful vocals and the song’s simple but effective arrangement. The song’s lyrics are about the pain and heartache of lost love.
Release and commercial success
“A Mess of Blues” was released as the B-side of the single “It’s Now or Never” in 1960. The song did not reach the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, but it did reach number two on the UK Singles Chart.
Critical reception and legacy
“A Mess of Blues” has been praised by critics for Presley’s vocals and the song’s emotional impact. The song has been covered by many artists, including Tom Jones, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Van Morrison.
Other information
- The song was used in the 1961 film “Wild in the Country”.
- The song was also used in the 1994 film “Pulp Fiction”.
- The song is featured in the video game “Rock Band”.
“A Mess of Blues” is a classic blues ballad that continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. It is a song that will always be associated with Elvis Presley, and it is a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time.
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was originally written for Bobby Darin, but he passed on it.
- Presley recorded the song in one take.
- The song was released as a single in the United Kingdom, but not in the United States.
- The song reached number two on the UK Singles Chart.
- The song has been covered by many artists, including Tom Jones, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Van Morrison.
- The song was used in the 1961 film “Wild in the Country”.
- The song was also used in the 1994 film “Pulp Fiction”.
- The song is featured in the video game “Rock Band”.