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Introduction:
Enter “Trouble”, a song that slithered onto the scene in 1958 as part of the soundtrack for Presley’s movie King Creole. While the film itself was a glossy Hollywood take on the rise of a young singer, “Trouble” offered a grittier counterpoint. Composed by the legendary songwriting duo of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song was one of only three originals they contributed to the soundtrack. Leiber and Stoller were no strangers to crafting blues-infused rock and roll, having penned classics for artists like The Coasters. They brought that expertise to “Trouble,” imbuing it with a dark, brooding atmosphere that stood out from the rest of the soundtrack.
“Trouble” wasn’t a chart-topping smash, but its influence has reverberated through the decades. Presley’s vocal performance on the track is a revelation. Gone is the playful croon of his early hits. In its place, a smoldering intensity takes hold. He growls, snarls, and pleads, embodying the persona of a young man simmering with discontent. This darker, more menacing side of Presley would resurface throughout his career, adding depth and complexity to his artistry.
While released in 1958, some music critics argue that “Trouble” was ahead of its time. The song’s raw energy and Presley’s aggressive vocals prefigure the rise of proto-punk in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Interestingly, Presley himself would revisit “Trouble” a decade later, opening his iconic 1968 Comeback Special with the song. This choice was a powerful statement, reminding audiences of the raw power that had first captivated them all those years ago.
So, “Trouble” stands as more than just a soundtrack cut. It’s a glimpse into a different side of Elvis Presley, a glimpse that would continue to resonate throughout his career and beyond. It’s a testament to the enduring power of blues-infused rock and roll, and a reminder that the King of Rock and Roll could be just as menacing as he was mesmerizing.