Introduction
A Forbidden Feeling: Unveiling Elvis Presley’s “The Girl of My Best Friend”
Elvis Presley’s “The Girl of My Best Friend” isn’t your typical rock and roll love song. Released in 1960 on the album “Elvis Is Back!”, it delves into a complex emotional territory – the allure of someone unavailable. The song’s themes resonated with audiences, propelling it to become a chart-topping hit and a significant entry in Elvis’s discography.
The songwriting duo of Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman crafted “The Girl of My Best Friend.” Pomus, known for his bluesy and soulful compositions, had previously penned hits for Elvis like “A Mess of Blues” and “Surrender.” “The Girl of My Best Friend” channeled a similar energy, but with a twist. The lyrics paint a picture of a man wrestling with forbidden feelings for his best friend’s girlfriend. Lines like “I can’t help it if I’m thinkin’ of her” and “I’m the one who suffers and cries” capture the internal conflict and emotional turmoil of the protagonist.
Elvis’s delivery is key to the song’s success. He balances a soulful vulnerability with a touch of rock and roll swagger. The lyrics themselves were considered slightly risqué for the time, adding a layer of intrigue to the song’s appeal. Despite the controversial theme, audiences connected with the raw emotions on display.
“The Girl of My Best Friend” became a major hit for Elvis, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1960. It solidified his status as a pop culture icon and showcased his ability to deliver songs that resonated with complex emotions. The song transcended generations, inspiring covers by artists like Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and The Cure, further solidifying its place in musical history.
So, prepare to be captivated by a tale of forbidden love and internal struggle. “The Girl of My Best Friend” is not your typical Elvis ballad; it’s a raw exploration of complex emotions delivered with the King’s signature charisma.