Introduction
Double Trouble: A Mid-Air Movie Musical Mashup
Elvis Presley’s “Double Trouble” isn’t a song in the traditional sense, but rather the soundtrack to his 1967 film of the same name. However, the music within the film holds a unique place in Presley’s filmography.
“Double Trouble” marked Presley’s 24th movie, filmed in mid-1966. Interestingly, it was released after his 23rd film, “Easy Come, Easy Go,” despite being filmed beforehand. The movie itself aimed to capitalize on two popular trends: the rising disco scene and the ever-present spy craze. Elvis plays Guy Lambert, an American singer caught in a web of espionage while vacationing in Europe.
The soundtrack reflects this mashup of genres. While some songs, like the title track, lean into the disco vibes with their thumping basslines and driving rhythms, others maintain the usual Presley rock and roll sound. There’s even a touch of balladry thrown in for good measure.
The brevity of the soundtrack is another interesting point. Clocking in at just over 17 minutes, it was significantly shorter than most LPs of the era. To fill out the album, RCA Victor added three previously unreleased tracks from 1963’s “lost album” sessions. This created a somewhat disjointed listening experience, but offered fans a glimpse into some of the “what ifs” of Presley’s musical trajectory.
Despite its unusual construction, “Double Trouble” captured the essence of Elvis’s mid-1960s film career. It was a fun, lighthearted romp with music that blended contemporary trends with Presley’s established sound. So, while you won’t find a single, iconic song titled “Double Trouble,” the soundtrack offers a glimpse into a specific time and place in Presley’s remarkable career.