Introduction
How The Web Was Woven: A Song Wrapped in Elvis’ 1970 Revival
Elvis Presley’s “How The Web Was Woven” isn’t one of his most famous tracks, but it offers a glimpse into a specific period of his career. Here’s what we know about the song’s history:
Recording: “How The Web Was Woven” was recorded in June 1970 during a productive five-day stretch at RCA’s Studio B in Nashville. This marked Presley’s first major recording session outside of film soundtracks since 1969.
Album: The song found its place on Presley’s album “That’s the Way It Is,” released in November 1970.
Composition: Credits go to songwriters Clive Westlake and Dave Most.
Reception: Reviews haven’t placed “How The Web Was Woven” among Presley’s top works. Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic describes the song, along with others on the album, as “perfectly pleasant middle-of-the-road material.”
While the song itself may not be a standout, it sits within a context of Presley’s career revival in the late 1960s and early 1970s. After focusing on Hollywood films throughout much of the decade, Presley returned to live performances in 1969 with his Las Vegas residency. This period saw him reconnect with his musical roots and explore genres like gospel and country.
“How The Web Was Woven” might not be a chart-topper, but it serves as a piece of the puzzle in understanding Presley’s artistic journey during this time. It reflects his venture into the Nashville recording scene and his engagement with songwriters outside his usual collaborators. So, as you listen to “How The Web Was Woven,” consider it a window into a specific moment in Presley’s remarkable career.