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Elvis Presley’s “Trying to Get to You”: The King’s Raw, Emotional Journey
Originally recorded in 1955 during his time at Sun Records and re-released in 1956 on Elvis Presley’s debut album, “Trying to Get to You” captures the raw passion and electrifying energy that defined the early career of the King of Rock and Roll. Although it didn’t chart as a single, the song remains a fan favorite for its heartfelt delivery and intimate lyrics.
“Trying to Get to You” tells the story of a determined lover willing to overcome any obstacle to be with the one he adores. The lyrics, “I’ve been traveling over mountains, even through the valleys too,” evoke a vivid sense of devotion and perseverance. This is no mere love song; it’s a declaration of unwavering commitment, made all the more powerful by Presley’s fiery performance.
Elvis’ vocal delivery is the centerpiece of the track. His voice transitions seamlessly from tender crooning to impassioned wails, capturing both the vulnerability and intensity of longing. The way he stretches the phrase “trying to get to you” into an emotional climax reveals his innate ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
The musical arrangement, though simple, is potent. With its bluesy guitar riffs, steady rhythm, and understated piano, the song draws from Presley’s rockabilly roots while also nodding to gospel and rhythm and blues influences. The stripped-down production lets Elvis’ voice shine, giving the song an intimate, almost confessional feel.
Recorded during a pivotal time in his career, “Trying to Get to You” showcases Elvis’ emerging artistry. It highlights his ability to bridge genres—melding the raw energy of rock and roll with the emotional depth of blues and the spiritual undertones of gospel. This versatility would become a hallmark of his music, helping him break barriers and revolutionize popular music.
Even decades later, “Trying to Get to You” retains its emotional impact. It’s a song that speaks to the universal experience of yearning for someone, of facing challenges head-on in the name of love. For fans of Elvis Presley, it’s a reminder of why he remains the King—a performer who could turn a simple melody into a timeless expression of the human heart.
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Lyric
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I’ve been traveling over mountains
Even through the valleys, too
I’ve been traveling night and day
I’ve been running all the way
Baby, trying to get to you.Ever since I read your letter
Where you said you loved me true
I’ve been traveling night and day
I’ve been running all the way
baby, trying to get to youWhen I read your loving letter
Then my heart began to sing
There were many miles between us,
But they didn’t mean a thing.I just had to reach you, baby,
In spite of all that I’ve been through.
I kept traveling night and day,
I kept running all the way,
Baby, trying to get to you.Well if I had to do it over
That’s exactly what I’d do,
I would travel night and day,
And I’d still run all the way,
Baby, trying to get to you.Well, there’s nothing that could hold me
Or that could keep me away from you
When your loving letter told me
That you really loved me trueLord above me knows I love you
It was He who brought me through,
When my way was dark as night,
He would shine His brightest light,
When I was trying to get to you.