Introduction
A Heartbreak Ballad with a Hint of Mystery: Unveiling Elvis Presley’s “How’s The World Treating You?”
Released in October 1956 on Elvis Presley’s debut album simply titled “Elvis Presley,” “How’s The World Treating You?” stands as a unique entry in the King of Rock and Roll’s early catalog. While the album primarily explodes with the energy of his signature rockabilly style, “How’s The World Treating You?” takes a more introspective turn, offering a glimpse into a heartbroken Elvis.
The exact origin of the song remains shrouded in a bit of mystery. Some credit songwriting duo Carl Perkins and Glenn King, while others suggest it was a traditional folk tune Elvis adapted. Regardless of its authorship, the song perfectly captures a sense of emotional vulnerability seldom seen in his early, high-octane performances.
The lyrics paint a picture of a lovesick Elvis, yearning for a lost connection. Lines like “Every sweet thing that mattered/Has been broken in two/All my dreams have been shattered” showcase his emotional turmoil. The repeated question, “How’s the world treating you?” seems directed not just at the past lover, but perhaps at the world that seems to have turned against him.
Musically, the song takes a slower tempo compared to Elvis’s usual rockabilly fare. The gentle strumming of the acoustic guitar and Elvis’s subdued vocals create a melancholic atmosphere, drawing the listener into his emotional state.
While not a chart-topping hit, “How’s The World Treating You?” holds a special place among Elvis fans. It offers a rare glimpse into the emotional depth of the young performer, showcasing a vulnerability that would become a recurring theme in his later ballads. So, prepare to experience a different side of Elvis Presley as we delve into the introspective world of “How’s The World Treating You?”