Introduction
It’s Midnight: A Late-Night Lament from the King
Elvis Presley’s “It’s Midnight” isn’t one of his flashier hits, but it offers a glimpse into a more vulnerable side of the King. Released in 1974, the ballad explores themes of longing, regret, and the weakening grip of self-control in the witching hour.
Songwriters Jerry Chesnut and Billy Edd Wheeler crafted the lyrics, which paint a picture of a man wrestling with his emotions. “Where is all my self-control?” he sings, “Trying to be strong / Then night time comes along / And I start loving you, wanting you.” This internal struggle unfolds against the backdrop of the midnight hour, a time often associated with heightened emotions and introspection.
“It’s Midnight” wasn’t initially intended to be a major hit. It was released as the B-side to Presley’s cover of Chuck Berry’s “Promised Land,” with some pressings even flipping the order. However, the song’s raw honesty resonated with fans, particularly those who witnessed Presley grapple with personal challenges in the later years of his career.
Despite its lower profile release, “It’s Midnight” stands as a testament to Presley’s vocal prowess. His voice, though perhaps not possessing the youthful exuberance of his early hits, carries a depth of emotion that perfectly complements the song’s melancholic tone. The late-night vulnerability expressed in “It’s Midnight” offers a compelling contrast to Presley’s iconic persona, showcasing a complex and relatable side to the King of Rock and Roll.