Introduction
Such a Night: A Cover Song with a Twist
Elvis Presley’s “Such a Night” might surprise some fans. It wasn’t an original Elvis tune, but a cover of a song that had already achieved international success.
The original “Such a Night” belonged to Johnnie Ray, a popular singer in the mid-1950s. Ray’s version topped the charts in several countries, captivating audiences with its romantic melody and passionate vocals.
Elvis recorded his version of “Such a Night” in 1960 during the sessions for his album “Elvis is Back!” This marked a turning point in his career. After a stint in the army, Elvis was returning to the music scene, and “Elvis is Back!” aimed to re-establish him as a recording artist.
However, including “Such a Night” on the album was a bit of a gamble. By 1960, Ray’s version was already a few years old, and some felt Elvis’ cover was a move away from his rock and roll roots. Additionally, some fans weren’t impressed with Elvis’ take on the song, believing it lacked the energy he brought to his own original material.
Despite these reservations, “Such a Night” wasn’t a complete flop. The song did find some success when released as a single in 1964, reaching number 16 on the US charts and even higher in the UK.
So, “Such a Night” stands as an interesting footnote in Elvis Presley’s career. It’s a reminder that even the King of Rock and Roll dabbled in covers, and it offers a chance to hear him tackle a different musical style. Whether you prefer the original or Elvis’ rendition, “Such a Night” is a song with a rich history, showcasing the evolution of popular music in the late 1950s and early 1960s.